Legislation has been introduced which amends the Special Session Act
requiring the legislative leaders and the Governor meet with
rank-and-file members every day that both chambers convene in Special
Session to discuss and answer questions regarding the status and
progress of budget negotiations.
“This legislation ensures that everyone is aware of the progress of
budget negotiations during special session,” said Sen. Althoff. “It is
unrealistic to expect members to be prepared to vote on a budget that
they and all concerned parties haven’t had an opportunity to fully
review.”
Senate Bill 1849 provides that any bills making an appropriation can
not be voted on by the General Assembly until they have been available
for review, in final form, for at least five days. Additional
legislation has been introduced directing the Governor and the
legislative leaders convene a leaders meeting each day that both
chambers convene in special session and to meet jointly with all
legislators to discus the status and progress of budget negotiations
immediately following the leaders meeting.
“The legislation allows both chambers, both parties to hear from all
involved entities about the status and the progress of the budget
negotiations,” said Sen. Althoff.
Senate Bill 1849 is currently in the Senate Rules Committee awaiting further action.