House and Senate Debate Amendments to Supplemental Budget [AUDIO]

Both the house and senate worked through numerous amendments on the supplemental budget. There were 29 second reading budget amendments in the senate and 43 in the house. The house passed a second reading amendment that would appropriate $500,000 for a performance and efficiency study of the Wyoming Department of Transportation by an outside entity. House speaker Representative Tom Lubnau (HD-31)says he thinks the amendment will help save money at WYDOT.

the mining companies in my district thought they were efficient until they went through this process...

Representative Mike Madden (HD-40), chairman of the house Revenue Committee, says he opposed the amendment because WYDOT is already one of the most scrutinized agencies in the state.

I need to know why the amendment focuses on that department.....

The senate passed a budget amendment that would add two full time positions to the Wyoming Military Department to provide veteran's services. Senator Michael Von Flatern (SD-24), chairman of the senate Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Committee says the positions are needed.

and looks at the VA medical systems and helps them work through all that paperwork.....

Senator Eli Bebout (SD-26),co-chairman of the Joint Appropriations Committee said he 'reluctantly' did not support the amendment because he thinks Wyoming does a good job in taking care of veterans.

but I really think the services we are providing meets the needs of our state....

Superintendent of Public Instruction Cindy Hill, is seeking more than $6 million for her newly reorganized office over the next 17 months. Governor Matt Mead has recommended just over $2 million. Representative Steve Harshman (HD-37), co-chairman of the Joint Appropriations Committee says the request will be discussed.