h_hie_2018a_2018-01-18t13:34:03z0 Hearing Summary

Senator Smallwood called the meeting to order and an agenda was distributed to the committee [Attachment A].

Representative Hamner, Joint Budget Committee (JBC) Chair, introduced members of the Joint Budget Committee.  Handouts related to the JBC presentation were distributed [Attachments B, C, D].

Representative Young highlighted a few aspects of the Budget Briefing Summary [Attachment C].  

Attachment C

Representative Young discussed the Department of Health Care Policy and Finance (HCPF) budget request.

Representative Young discussed the Department of Human Services (DHS)  budget request.

Senator Lambert highlighted possible JBC bills [Attachment D].  He summarized 11 bills and welcomed future input from the committee.

Representative Hamner welcomed a two way dialogue about topics concerning the JBC and improving the Long Bill process.

Senator Smallwood opened the committee to questions.  The JBC responded to questions on smart spending, appropriate allocation, and regional health centers.  Committee discussion ensued.

Representative Beckman asked questions about JBC legislation regarding grants, gifts and donations, and SNAP eligibility. Committee discussion ensued.    

Representative Kennedy expressed support and gratitude for JBC actions on the opioid crisis.

Representaive Esgar asked questions about changes in HCPF programs and the DHS CIRCLE program budget.  Committee discussion ensued.

Committee members continued to ask questions and discuss budgetary issues and monetary allocation in the executive branch.

Discussion continued on funding issues with healthcare, public health, clean air and water around the state, and the effectiveness of the SMART Act process.