In a remarkably quiet, brief and orderly session Wednesday, the Senate Finance Committee approved 19 of the 35 bills on its agenda for the FY 2000 budget.
Chairwoman Lorraine Berry noted that the committee has been tangling with the budget since it was first received from Gov. Charles W. Turnbull almost five months ago.
Berry also noted that at the budget's reception, Campbell Malone, Legislature post auditor, cautioned that it was "flawed and dangerous." Berry commended her colleagues for their diligence and perseverance in going over the often-difficult and time-consuming budget issues.
Fifteen of the 20 bills sent on to the Rules Committee contained the amendment that "each item contained in this act shall be reduced by the sum expended for the objects and purposes of such item between Oct. 1, 1999, and the effective date of this act."
Bill No. 23-0099 providing for an appropriation from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund to the Department of Housing, Parks and Recreation during the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2000, was amended to change the total amount of the bill from $500,000 to $450,000.
Bill No. 23-0099 to appropriate monies from the Anti-litter and Beautification Fund to the Public Works Department for FY 2000 was amended to include St. John.
Bill No. 23-0124 providing an appropriation from the Fish and Game Fund was held over until Thursday's session, awaiting a balance update.
Bills that should stir some action Thursday include No. 23-0164, which provides for eliminating five current government holidays, and the controversial No. 23-0163, which addresses adjustments in retirement contributions.
Attending the meeting were Sens. Gregory Bennerson, George Goodwin, Roosevelt David and David Jones. Sen. Anne Golden was excused and Sen. Alicia "Chucky "Hansen was absent.
Thursday's session, originally scheduled for 10 a.m., has been rescheduled for 1 p.m., so senators can attend the funeral for John deJongh Sr.
Editor's note: For a summary of all the bills being considered this week go to Local Government, Senate Calendar.
