HOUSE
Today scheduled on the House calendar is the large state fiscal matters bill, HB 3790 (Pitts). Over 100 amendments have been pre-filed on this bill and it is expected more amendments may be discussed as amendments to amendments are brought up during the floor debate today.
Other fiscal matters bills attempting to generate revenue for the upcoming biennium budget are also scheduled on the House calendar today and include: HB 3665 – general government, HB 3639 – public and higher education, HB 3648 –judiciary, and HB 3418 natural resources and the environment.
SENATE
Yesterday, the Senate Finance Committee took up a Committee Substitute for HB 4 by Pitts, relating to making supplemental appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations. HB 4 as passed by the House authorizes the use of $3.1 billion from the Rainy Day Fund, also known as the Economic Stabilization Fund, to help the state close its current fiscal biennium shortfall of $3.9 billion. CSHB 4 as presented by Senator Ogden authorizes the use of $3.25 billion from the Rainy Day Fund, a slight difference from the House version, which Ogden claims is attributable to the Senate’s more accurate calculations from having had more time with the bill. Ogden expressed desire to have CSHB 4 on the Senate floor as soon as possible, which is believed to be Wednesday at the earliest. Senator West indicated he will be offering a floor amendment concerning the addition of additional Rainy Day Funds to cover the estimated cost of growth in public schools. The Committee Substitute for HB 4 was adopted and reported to the full Senate with 11 ayes and one present not voting, which was Senator West.