MINUTES OF THE
SENATE Committee on Finance
Seventy-First Session
May 18, 2001
The Senate Committee on Financewas called to order by Chairman William J. Raggio at 8:23 a.m., on Friday, May 18, 2001, in Room 2134 of the Legislative Building, Carson City, Nevada. Exhibit A is the Agenda. Exhibit B is the Attendance Roster. All exhibits are available and on file at the Research Library of the Legislative Counsel Bureau.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT:
Senator William J. Raggio, Chairman
Senator Raymond D. Rawson, Vice Chairman
Senator Lawrence E. Jacobsen
Senator William R. O’Donnell
Senator Joseph M. Neal Jr.
Senator Bob Coffin
Senator Bernice Mathews
COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT:
Senator William R. O’Donnell (Excused)
STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT:
Gary L. Ghiggeri, Senate Fiscal Analyst
Bob Guernsey, Principal Deputy Fiscal Analyst
Mark Krmpotic, Program Analyst
Michael J. Chapman, Program Analyst
Bob Atkinson, Program Analyst
Carla Watson, Program Analyst
Rick Combs, Program Analyst
Larry L. Peri, Senior Program Analyst
Jim Rodriguez, Program Analyst
Jennifer Ruedy, Committee Secretary
OTHERS PRESENT:
Raymond Bacon, Lobbyist, Nevada Manufacturers Association
Don Hataway, Deputy Director, Budget Division, Department of Administration
Daniel K. O’Brien, Manager, State Public Works Board, Department of Administration
Stephen A. Shaw, Administrator, Division of Child and Family Services, Department of Human Resources
Senator Raggio directed attention to Senate Bill (S.B.) 292.
SENATE BILL 292: Revises provisions governing education. (BDR 34-382)
Senator Raggio stated S.B. 292 has not been “noticed,” so the committee will not be able to take any action on the bill at this time. However, he commented that Raymond Bacon, Lobbyist, Nevada Manufacturers Association is available to respond to questions regarding the bill. He articulated Mr. Bacon has indicated that a source of funding other than General Fund exists for this appropriation, and he would like Mr. Bacon to testify regarding that alternative source. He stated the bill could be noticed for hearing on Monday, May 21, 2001, following Mr. Bacon’s testimony today.
Mr. Bacon stated S.B. 292 would provide a $100,000 revolving loan fund to assist charter schools to expand their programs after they are established. He said there is no requirement that the $100,000 be provided from state funds. He articulated:
I will make a personal commitment to you that I will go out there and hustle the private sector to get at least part of that $100,000 revolving loan fund started from private sector funds. And then, simultaneously, we will continue to build that with private sector funds; so there will be no state funding involved in this thing. Maybe at some future point in time, if the charter school movement is moving effectively and you are pleased with the results . . . you may want to put money in there. But there would be no requirement this biennium.
Senator Raggio stated S.B. 292 was heard by the Senate Committee on Human Resources and Facilities. He asked Senator Rawson whether he had any objection to S.B. 292 being noticed for a formal hearing on Monday, May 21, 2001. Senator Rawson indicated he had no objection.
Senator Raggio commented Senator Washington should be notified of the hearing, and he asked Mr. Bacon to attend the hearing also.
Senator Raggio directed attention to budget closings.
Mark Krmpotic, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, provided the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C. Original is on file in the Research Library.).
Public Safety, Drug Commission – Budget Page PS-36 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4704
Mr. Krmpotic stated the subcommittee did not concur with the Governor to add General Fund dollars to continue a program officer position that was previously funded with Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Abuse (BADA) grants. He stated BADA funding would be discontinued at the end of this biennium. He added that the subcommittee indicated they would consider adding General Fund dollars if funds were available later this session.
Senator Raggio inquired what would happen to the Program Officer position without BADA grant funding. Mr. Krmpotic commented the position would be eliminated from the budget.
Senator Raggio asked Don Hataway, Deputy Director, Budget Division, Department of Administration, to comment regarding the elimination of the position. Mr. Hataway responded the Budget Division typically believes that when the federal funding for a position is eliminated, so is the position. He said the Budget Division recommended the use of General Fund dollars for the continuation of this position because of the limited number of employees currently in this office.
Senator Raggio questioned whether the program would continue without this position.
Mr. Hataway responded the office currently has two employees. He added the office would have only one employee if this position were eliminated.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4704 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Justice Grant – Budget Page PS-44 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4736
Mr. Krmpotic read verbatim from pages one and two of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C. Original is on file in the Research Library.). He pointed out the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s amendment to add two positions to administer the federal excess property program and law enforcement equipment purchase program also known as “Falcons Nest.” He added the subcommittee did not concur with the Governor’s recommendation to add General Funds to provide the 25 percent match for Byrne Discretionary Grant Program funds. He said the agency provided documentation indicating sufficient funding is available from the FY 2000 Byrne Discretionary Grant Program funds to provide 25 percent of program expenses. He stated the subcommittee recommended a Letter of Intent to have the agency report quarterly to Interim Finance Committee (IFC) regarding the status of the program.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4736 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION INCLUDING THE LETTER OF INTENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS RAGGIO AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Emergency Management Division – Budget Page PS-49 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3673
Michael J. Chapman, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, read verbatim from page 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). He reported that the subcommittee concurred with the consolidation of certain special use expenditure categories into a single category entitled “Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG).” The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), he explained, consolidated various grant programs into a single EMPG grant. Mr. Chapman stated the subcommittee did not concur with the Governor’s recommendation to consolidate out-of-state travel, in-state travel, and operating expense categories into the EMPG grant expenditure category.
Additionally, he stated, the subcommittee recommended approval to increase a half-time Communication Specialist position to full-time. He clarified that this position supported the state’s emergency communications network that includes local and federal emergency responders. Also, he indicated, the subcommittee recommended approval of funding for the Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety (DMV&PS) cost allocation.
SENATE BILL 306: Makes various changes relating to emergency management. (BDR 18-1231)
Mr. Chapman stated, however, that if S.B. 306 is approved, which transfers emergency management operations from DMV&PS to the Governor’s office, the subcommittee recommended authorizing staff to eliminate cost allocation funding.
Senator Rawson stated the Emergency Management Division forwarded a request to him earlier in the week. He said the division indicated it would like to send a member of its staff to a conference, which takes place immediately after the start of FY 2002, and it would like to balance forward funds from FY 2001 to cover the costs of attending the conference. He questioned what the current balance would be for this division.
Mr. Chapman responded he is uncertain of the current balance of the division’s account, but he does not believe the division would be able to balance those funds forward.
Mr. Ghiggeri reiterated those funds could not be balanced forward, and he noted this is the first he has heard of this request.
Senator Rawson stated he received the request and it appears the issue should be “left alone.”
Mr. Hataway commented he is unfamiliar with this specific request, but he pointed out there is a funding mechanism to allow for registration of conferences in other fiscal years. He added pre-registration for the conference might result in savings for the division as it does in many cases.
Senator Raggio asked Mr. Hataway to follow up on this matter.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3673 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION CONTINGENT UPON THE PASSAGE OF S.B. 306.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Senator Coffin inquired about the status of S.B. 306. He stated he believes the bill should be approved.
SENATE BILL 306: Makes various changes relating to emergency management. (BDR 18-1231)
Mr. Chapman responded the bill has been approved by the Senate and is currently with the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means. He added the Assembly committee has not heard the bill yet, to his knowledge.
Senator Raggio clarified the bill was approved by the Senate Committee on Government Affairs not the Senate Committee on Finance.
Senator Coffin asked whether Mr. Chapman thought the bill would be approved. Mr. Chapman responded, “I haven’t heard of any roadblocks.”
Emergency Management Assistance Program – Budget Page PS-57 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3674
Mr. Chapman read verbatim from page 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C, page 2). He reported this account has historically been a pass-through of federal grant funds to local governments and state agencies. He advised the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s recommendation to consolidate this account into the Division of Emergency Management budget account. Additionally, he indicated, the pass-through grant funds will be monitored in a separate category.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3674 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Hazardous Materials – Budget Page PS-59 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 201-4728
Mr. Krmpotic stated the subcommittee concurs with the consolidation of the Hazardous Materials budget account and the Highway Patrol budget account. He noted the Assembly subcommittee members recommended operating expenses for this program be tracked in a separate category within the Highway Patrol budget account. He pointed out the Senate subcommittee members did not approve the closure of this budget account; so full committee action is required.
Senator Raggio requested further discussion of the Senate subcommittee members’ objections. Mr. Krmpotic responded, “The objection had to do with the consolidation and the establishment of a separate category in the Highway Patrol budget to track expenditures relative to this program.”
Senator Raggio clarified this budget account would be consolidated within the Highway Patrol budget account and Assembly subcommittee members recommended tracking the expenditures of this program in a separate category. He questioned whether staff had concerns regarding this.
Mr. Krmpotic stated that staff’s concerns regard language in statute that specifies revenues collected for this program and deposited into the Highway Fund must be used exclusively for program expenses. Senator Raggio commented the committee should take into consideration staff’s concerns on this “budget issue.”
Gary L. Ghiggeri, Senate Fiscal Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, commented the fiscal analysis staff experienced difficulties in working with the budgets of the Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety. He said anything that would facilitate staff’s review of these budgets would be greatly appreciated.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 201-4728 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE ASSEMBLY MEMBERS OF THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Criminal History Repository – Budget Page PS-65 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4709
Mr. Krmpotic read verbatim from page 3 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C, page 3). He reported the subcommittee approved the transfer of positions responsible for data entry for the registration of sex offenders from the Division of Parole and Probation. He indicated the transfer would help eliminate the duplication of effort for record research and dissemination of information between repository and the staff of the Division of Parole and Probation. Further, he stated, the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s recommendation to fund these positions with administrative court assessments. Additionally, Mr. Krmpotic commented the subcommittee concurred with the administrative court assessment allocation consolidation from the State Highway Patrol budget account. He clarified that consolidated assessments would represent support of the criminal history repository and transfers to the Public Safety Technology budget account for statewide access to the law enforcement message switch in one budget account.
Mr. Krmpotic advised the subcommittee recommended approval of the transfer of 2 Information System Specialist positions from the Civil Name Check program to the Public Safety Technology Division. This transfer, he stated, reflects costs for all programming and network support resources in 1 budget account. Mr. Krmpotic informed the committee that the agency indicated that these positions would continue to support the Civil Name Check program.
Senator Raggio questioned whether court assessments would provide sufficient revenue to fund positions transferred from the Division of Parole and Probation. Mr. Krmpotic responded affirmatively.
Mr. Hataway stated the court assessments have increased by approximately 7 percent each year; so there is reasonable assurance the revenue will be sufficient.
Senator Raggio inquired about the civil name check program. Mr. Krmpotic responded the program was approved by the 1997 Legislature to primarily assist casino properties to check their prospective applicants’ names.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4709 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Highway Patrol – Budget Page PS-78 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 201-4713
Mr. Krmpotic read verbatim from pages 3 and 4 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). He stated the subcommittee recommends approval of Highway Fund appropriations of $1.1 million each year to provide for five additional positions and associated operating expenses to support the ongoing maintenance of the “VHF Highband Radio System.” He said the subcommittee recommends revenue authority in lieu of Highway Fund appropriations of $141,694 in FY 2002 and $144,985 in FY 2003 to allow the highway patrol to receive reimbursement for actual costs to repair radios for other divisions in the department. He added the subcommittee did not act on the recommendation to transfer in costs from the Highway Patrol Hazardous Materials budget account, so full committee action is required.
Senator Raggio inquired about the issues concerning the Senate and Assembly subcommittee inaction on the recommendation to transfer costs from the Highway Patrol Hazardous Materials budget account into the Public Safety, Highway Patrol budget account.
Mr. Krmpotic responded the issue was the disagreement over the identification of a separate category for the Hazardous Materials budget account costs. He stated the budget should be closed consistent with the closing of the Hazardous Materials budget account.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 201-4713 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION CONSISTENT WITH THE CLOSING OF THE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS BUDGET ACCOUNT.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Forfeitures – Law Enforcement – Budget Page PS-95 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4703
Mr. Krmpotic stated the subcommittee approved the Governor’s amendment to continue use of forfeiture funds of $390,145 in FY 2002 and $420,840 in FY 2003 to provide the 25 percent Byrne Discretionary Grant Program match in support of the narcotics task forces in the Narcotic Control budget account 101‑3744.
Senator Raggio questioned whether the forfeiture funds anticipated were realistic. Mr. Krmpotic stated the balance anticipated by the department at the end of this year is approximately $2 million.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4703 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Mr. Hataway commented that Carol English, Assistant Chief, Administrative Services Division, Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety, just pointed out to him that the department was not especially pleased to replace the General Funds with forfeiture funds.
Senator Raggio noted the recommendation to use those funds came from Mr. Hataway’s office.
Mr. Hataway agreed, but he proposed another solution. He said the Budget Division did not project the 7 percent growth rate based upon current activity. He commented court assessments are currently in excess of what was built into this biennium’s budget. He suggested the budget could be re-projected based on current growth into the future, and it could be enough to offset all or part of this.
Senator Raggio noted, “The Judicial Branch is having heartburn over the use of court-assessment funding otherwise.”
Mr. Hataway responded there is a bill currently pending concerning the court-assessment funding.
Senator Raggio interjected, “It would require 51 percent.”
Mr. Hataway commented, “We’re not in favor of that.”
Senator Raggio stated, “There is a threat that if we don’t approve that, then somehow all of those assessments are in jeopardy because the majority [of the assessments] has to be used for judicial purposes.”
Mr. Hataway responded, “Right. I’ve heard that for about 12 years.”
Senator Raggio said, “I’m just reminding you. Somehow the court has the ultimate authority on that issue, to some extent.”
Mr. Hataway explained that if the Budget Division had known the court assessments would have been higher than anticipated, they would have provided for greater use of the court assessments in this budget.
Senator Raggio commented that substituting court assessment funds for forfeiture funding would not “free up” any General Fund dollars. He inquired about the general use of the forfeiture funds.
Mr. Hataway responded the agency believes it has legitimate equipment needs in the law enforcement area that could be funded through the use of forfeiture funds. He commented the Budget Division suggested this alternative purely as a means of alleviating the use of General Fund dollars.
Senator Raggio stated this would require approximately $800,000 in court-assessment funding, and he questioned whether that amount would be available.
Mr. Hataway stated that amounts in excess of $800,000 were reverted to the General Fund during the past couple of bienniums.
Senator Raggio asked whether there were any objections to substituting court-assessment funding.
Mr. Ghiggeri responded this is the first the fiscal division has heard of this proposal, and he feels uncomfortable recommending the substitution without further review.
Senator Raggio agreed it was rather late to make the change.
Senator Rawson suggested the Senate Committee on Finance might provide the authority for this to be adjusted by the Interim Finance Committee (IFC).
Senator Raggio commented that would be inappropriate for this matter. He proposed half of the funding could be provided by court-assessment funding and the other half from forfeiture funds, subject to staff’s review.
Mr. Hataway responded that would please his office.
Senator Raggio stated if staff determines there is insufficient court-assessment funding available, “we will change it.” He clarified the motion is to provide half the necessary funding from court assessments and half from forfeiture funds to provide the 25 percent Byrne Discretionary Grant Program match.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4703 AS STATED BY SENATOR RAGGIO INCLUDING THE AUTHORITY FOR STAFF TO ADJUST THE FUNDING IN THE EVENT STAFF DETERMINES THE COURT-ASSESSMENT FUNDING IS INSUFFICIENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Division of Investigations – Budget Page PS-98 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3743
Mr. Krmpotic read verbatim from page 4 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). He reported the subcommittee recommended approval of a Program Assistant position to assist with general clerical duties and process the collection of forfeitures and seizures. Additionally, he indicated the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s recommendation to eliminate the Vehicle Auto Theft Unit, otherwise known as “Viper.” Mr. Krmpotic indicated information was provided by the agency indicating local law enforcement would be primarily responsible for vehicle and automobile theft investigations.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3743 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Narcotics Control – Budget Page PS-107 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3744
Mr. Krmpotic commented the subcommittee supported the Governor’s recommendation to eliminate General Fund dollars. He said based on the committee’s action on the forfeitures account, this budget would also need to be adjusted.
Senator Raggio indicate he would accept a motion to close this budget consistent with the action taken on the Public Safety, Forfeitures – Law Enforcement account.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3744 CONSISTENT WITH THE ACTION TAKEN ON THE PUBLIC SAFETY, FORFEITURES – LAW ENFORCEMENT ACCOUNT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Parole and Probation – Budget Page PS-113 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3740
Bob Atkinson, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau read verbatim from page 5 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). He stated The Executive Budget did not include any new staff to address caseload issues in this budget account. He said based on the testimony received from the division, the subcommittee concurred with this recommendation.
Mr. Atkinson noted the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s recommendations to provide a one-grade salary increase for parole and probation officers and to increase the number of vehicles in order to provide a vehicle for each officer. He said the subcommittee also concurred with the Governor’s recommendations to transfer the sex offender registry to the criminal history repository and to continue the Drug Court Program. He noted A.B. 574 would continue the Drug Court Program. He said the Assembly approved A.B. 574, and the bill is currently in the Senate Committee on Judiciary.
ASSEMBLY BILL 574: Makes changes to provisions concerning programs of treatment for abuse of alcohol or drugs for certain offenders and provisions concerning sentencing of certain persons sentenced to imprisonment for life without parole. (BDR 16-1327)
Mr. Atkinson stated the recommended budget included a pilot project to privatize the pre-sentence investigation reports that are currently conducted by sworn probation officers. He noted S.B. 550 provides for the privatization of the pre-sentence investigation. He said Senate approved S.B. 550, and the bill is currently in the Assembly Committee on Judiciary. He stated the subcommittee recommends approval of this pilot project, but recommends the start date of the project be moved to October 1, 2001 to allow the division time to receive bids and execute contracts with private investigators.
SENATE BILL 550: Allows division of parole and probation of department of motor vehicles and public safety to contract with person to conduct presentence investigation. (BDR 14-1436)
Mr. Atkinson stated the subcommittee closed this budget account with the recommendation to provide funding for radio repairs, which would be repaired by personnel in the highway patrol budget account.
Senator Mathews commented she thought individual vehicles were approved for all of the parole and probation officers during the 1997 Legislature. She questioned the need to replace those vehicles at this time.
Mr. Atkinson stated he is unaware of what action was taken during the 1997 Legislature, but he believes each vehicle is shared between 2 officers currently. He said the mileage on each vehicle determines when a vehicle will be replaced.
Senator Mathews said she was on the public safety subcommittee during the 1997 Legislature that listened to the testimony requesting larger cars to facilitate the transportation of parolees.
Mr. Ghiggeri commented the larger cars are preferred to facilitate the transportation of parole and probation violators. He said the vehicles are replaced routinely after approximately 70,000 to 80,000 miles; so there is a nearly constant need for replacement. He pointed out each vehicles has historically been shared by 2 officers, but the Governor has recommended one vehicle should be provided to each individual officer. He noted the funding for the purchase of the requested vehicles is in a “one-shot” appropriation bill currently in the Assembly.
Senator Mathews thanked Mr. Ghiggeri for the clarification.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3740 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Parole Board – Budget Page PS-177 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3800
Mr. Atkinson read verbatim from page 6 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). He reported the subcommittee recommended this account be closed primarily as recommended by the Governor, with minor technical adjustments. However, he stated, the subcommittee did approve the “unfreezing of merits” in this account to help alleviate budget shortfalls in the personnel category.
ASSEMBLY BILL 160: Revises provisions governing industrial insurance. (BDR 53‑1097)
Mr. Atkinson indicated with the passage of A.B. 160, which allows sole proprietor independent contractors to make an election to be excluded from workers’ compensation coverage, funding in the amount of $3,500 each year that had been approved by the subcommittee for that purposes, would be eliminated from this account based on the passage of A.B. 160.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3800 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Public Safety, Highway Safety Plan & Admin – Budget Page PS-139 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4688
Mr. Krmpotic read verbatim from page 6 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). Mr. Krmpotic reported the subcommittee recommended approval of a new Grants and Projects Analyst position to relieve the workload for other positions and allow time to apply for additional federal funds. He added that the subcommittee approved the continuation of the Traffic Records Manager position funded through federal funds.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4688 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Hazardous Materials Training Center – Budget Page PS-165 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3834
Mr. Krmpotic read verbatim from pages 6 and 7 of the Joint Subcommittee on Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Transportation Closing Report: Department of Public Safety dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit C). He stated the subcommittee recommends the removal of General Fund amounts of $171,549 in FY 2002 and $228,589 in FY 2003. He articulated based on information supplied by the Division of Environmental Protection (DEP), transfers resulting from the low-level waste surcharge at the Beatty dumpsite are estimated to continue at the FY 2000 level of $343,392. He said in recognizing the potential impact to this program, if transfers from DEP do not occur as anticipated, the subcommittee recommends General Fund appropriations of $1,000 each year to provide access to the IFC Contingency Fund.
Mr. Krmpotic commented the agency indicated in some instances Deputy State Fire Marshals could be utilized to perform fire and life safety inspections of facilities under the jurisdiction of the State Fire Marshal, which are generally performed by staff in the fire marshal budget account 101-3816. He said the subcommittee recommends a Letter of Intent to direct that Deputy State Fire Marshals authorized in this account for the purpose of inspecting and licensing businesses that store hazardous materials be cross utilized to perform fire and life safety inspections and that travel expenses incurred to perform fire and life safety inspection activities be charged to the fire marshal account where that function is performed.
Senator Raggio clarified the appropriation of $1,000 each year of the biennium is to provide access to the IFC contingency fund. He questioned whether the Beatty dumpsite for low-level waste is being phased out.
Mr. Krmpotic commented he previously thought it would be phased out also, but it appears the dumpsite is being expanded to provide for additional storage.
Mr. Hataway said he agrees with Mr. Krmpotic’s statement. He added the $1,000 appropriation each year of the biennium is a reasonable solution at this time.
Senator Mathews noted she thought this dumpsite was being phased out in 1995 when she first arrived at the Legislature. She questioned who generates the low‑level waste.
Senator Raggio clarified the waste generally comes from hospitals in California.
SENATOR MATHEWS MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3834 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION INCLUDING THE LETTER OF INTENT REGARDING THE CROSS-UTILIZATION AND CHARGING FOR INSPECTION ACTIVITIES.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS COFFIN AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Emergency Response Commission – Budget Page PS-172 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4729
Mr. Krmpotic stated the subcommittee concurs with the Governor’s amendment to increase Highway Fund appropriations to fully support salary expenses for two positions and associated operating expenses.
Mr. Krmpotic articulated the subcommittee concurs with the Governor’s recommendations with minor or technical adjustments for the following accounts:
Public Safety, Dignitary Protection – Budget Page PS-73 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-4738
Public Safety - Capitol Police – Budget Page PS-123 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 710-4727
Public Safety, Bicycle Safety Program – Budget Page PS-147 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 201-4689
Public Safety, Motorcycle Safety Program – Budget Page PS-152 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 201-4691
Public Safety, Fire Marshall – Budget Page PS-158 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3816
Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission – Budget Page POST-1 (Volume 3)
Budget Account 101-3774
Mr. Krmpotic stated the subcommittee recommendations for the Public Safety budget accounts result in General Fund reductions of $547,602 in FY 2002 and $636,780 in FY 2003 and Highway Fund reductions of $495,772 in FY 2002 and $458,962 in FY 2003.
SENATOR JACOBSEN MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNTS 101-4729, 101-4738, 710-4727, 201-4689, 201-4691, 101-3816, AND 101-3774 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND TRANSPORTATION WITH TECHNICAL ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Mr. Ghiggeri pointed out Mr. Krmpotic will be presenting the balance of the Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety budget accounts to the committee on Monday, May 21, 2001 for closing. He noted the subcommittee has not closed many of those accounts, so those accounts will require closure by the full committee. He commented Mr. Krmpotic’s presentation would assume the department is being split into two separate departments.
Rick Combs, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, provided the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D. Original is on file in the Research Library.). He pointed out the following 17 budget accounts were closed by the subcommittee as recommended by the Governor with only minor technical adjustments.
B&I, Industrial Development Bonds – Budget Page B&I-6 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-4683
B&I, Insurance Examiners – Budget Page B&I-41 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 223-3817
B&I, Insurance Education & Research - Budget Page B&I-49 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3824
B&I, Self Insured – Workers Compensation - Budget Page B&I-64 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 210-4684
B&I, Dairy Commission - Budget Page B&I-69 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 233-4470
B&I, Manufactured Housing - Budget Page B&I-75 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 271-3814
B&I, Mobile Home Lot Rent Subsidy - Budget Page B&I-80 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 630-3842
B&I, Mobile Home Parks - Budget Page B&I-84 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 271-3843
B&I, Housing Division - Budget Page B&I-92 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 503-3841
B&I, Financial Institutions Investigations - Budget Page B&I-112 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3805
B&I, Consumer Affairs - Budget Page B&I-119 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3811
B&I, Governor’s Committee to Hire Handicapped - Budget Page B&I-123 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3156
B&I, Mine Safety & Training - Budget Page B&I-145 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 210-4686
B&I, Employees Management Relations Board - Budget Page B&I-156 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-1374
B&I, Athletic Commission - Budget Page B&I-175 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3952
B&I, Energy Conservation - Budget Page B&I-183 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-4868
B&I, Petroleum Overcharge Rebate - Budget Page B&I-187 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-4539
Senator Raggio indicated he would accept a motion to close all 17 budget accounts as recommended by the subcommittee with minor technical adjustments.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNTS 101-4683, 223‑3817, 101-3824, 210-4684, 233-4470, 271-3814, 630-3842, 271‑3843, 503-3841, 101-3805, 101-3811, 101-3156, 210-4686, 101‑1374, 101-3952, 101-4868, AND 101-4539 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT WITH MINOR TECHNICAL ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Business and Industry Administration - Budget Page B&I-1 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-4681
Mr. Combs read from page 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D). He reported the subcommittee voted to delete $1,106 for the costs associated with the director’s attendance at the Women’s Executives in State Government Conference in each year of the biennium. However, he stated, as approved by the subcommittee, the account will include $3,061 for training expenditures in each year of the biennium, and the subcommittee indicated that the funds could be used by the director for travel to out-of-state training courses if the director wishes to use the funds in that manner.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-4681 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Real Estate Administration - Budget Page B&I-13 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3823
Mr. Combs stated The Executive Budget includes a $206,655 balance forward in each year of the biennium. He said, “This is mainly a General Fund account with some revenues that come in for specified purposes only and, therefore, does not carry a balance forward or a reserve.” He noted that in order to correct the problem, the subcommittee eliminated the balance forward and made a number of other adjustments including: increasing the transfer from the common interest communities account to reflect the actual administrative support that account receives from this budget, increasing revenue received from fees to reflect current agency projections, reducing funding for training to reflect actual need, and reducing funding for equipment to reflect revised computer and office furniture costs.
Senator Raggio stated the adjustments appear reasonable and he would accept a motion to close the budget.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3823 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR COFFIN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Common Interest Communities - Budget Page B&I-19 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3820
Mr. Combs read from pages 2 and 3 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D). He reported the subcommittee approved increasing the transfer from this budget account to the Real Estate Administration account to reflect actual administrative support received from the division. He indicated that, because the reserve balance for this account appeared to be at a sufficient level, the subcommittee requested that the agency review the reserve during the interim to determine if the per-unit fee of $3 should be reduced to maintain the current reserve level.
SENATE BILL 421: Makes various changes to provisions governing common-interest communities. (BDR 10-446)
Mr. Combs noted that S.B. 421, if enacted, this legislation will reduce the reserve in this budget account significantly.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3820 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATORS RAWSON AND O’DONNELL WERE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Insurance Regulation - Budget Page B&I-33 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3813
E-278 Working Environment & Wage – Page B&I-38
Mr. Combs pointed out the Senate members of the subcommittee approved the closing of this budget, as recommended by the Governor, with 1 new Compliance Investigator II position included in this decision unit. He noted the Assembly members of the subcommittee did not close this budget account, and they requested additional information from the agency justifying the 1 new Compliance Investigator II position. He noted the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means should close this account after reviewing the issue of the position.
Senator Raggio commented he believes the position was requested to accommodate an increased workload in the licensing of real estate agents and investigating insurers who apply to sell insurance. He asked which of the Senate members were on the subcommittee and present for this budget hearing.
Senator Jacobsen responded that Senator O’Donnell, Senator Neal, and he were the Senate members present for the subcommittee hearing.
Jim Rodriguez, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, stated, “The commissioner requested this position as an attempt to meet requirements.”
Senator Raggio asked Mr. Hataway whether the Governor still supports this additional position. Mr. Hataway responded affirmatively.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3813 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE GOVERNOR INCLUDING THE 1 NEW COMPLIANCE INVESTIGATOR II POSITION.
SENATOR COFFIN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Financial Institutions - Budget Page B&I-107 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3835
Mr. Combs read from page 3 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D). He reported the audit report issued by the Legislative Auditor indicated the agency has been inappropriately recording administrative operating revenues and expenditures to Financial Institutions Investigations budget account (101‑3805). He noted the subcommittee approved adjustments to transfer revenues and expenditures from the Investigation Account to this operating account in accordance with the legislative audit. Mr. Combs stated The Executive Budget recommended that computer equipment for staff in the Financial Institutions Division be funded from the Investigation account. However, he indicated the subcommittee instead funded the equipment from this operating account. Further, subsequent to the subcommittee closing, he said, staff discovered funding of $7,779 was omitted in error for computer hardware and software. Therefore, staff recommends an adjustment to include this amount in FY 2002. Lastly, Mr. Combs advised the subcommittee approved the elimination of an existing Financial Examiner position and funding for 1 new Program Assistant II position.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3835 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT INCLUDING THE $7,779 FUNDING FOR THE OMISSION IN THE COMPUTER SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE LINE ITEM AND THE AUTHORITY FOR STAFF TO MAKE NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS IN THE EVENT ASSEMBLY BILL (A.B.) 324 IS ENACTED.
SENATOR COFFIN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Senator Raggio asked Mr. Hataway whether he had any objections to the closing action on budget account 101-3835. Mr. Hataway indicated he had no objections.
Senator Coffin asked what effect A.B. 324, which is still in the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, would have on budget account 101-3835.
ASSEMBLY BILL 324: Revises various provisions regarding regulation of mortgage brokers, mortgage agents and mortgage companies. (BDR 54-491)
Carla Watson, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, stated A.B. 324 has been amended and is currently in the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means. She explained the original bill proposed removal of the regulatory authority for the mortgage industry from the Financial Institutions Division. She pointed out the amendment, as processed by the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, proposes to leave the regulatory authority for the mortgage industry with the Financial Institutions Division and to have the mortgage brokers go to the office of the commissioner. She indicated staff could adjust the account, depending on the fiscal note, if the bill passes.
Senator Raggio said the motion would include the authority for staff to make necessary adjustments in the event A.B. 324 is enacted.
Senator Coffin indicated he approved of the action.
Senator Raggio asked whether any member of the committee objected to including that authority in the closing of the budget. No objection was indicated.
B&I, Industrial Relations - Budget Page B&I-127 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 210-4680
Mr. Combs read from page 4 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D). He reported the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s recommendation to eliminate a Management Analyst II position. Further, he noted, the subcommittee recommended approval of the division’s request to eliminate 5 additional positions after an internal evaluation of the division’s needs determined these positions were no longer necessary to carry out the duties of the office.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 210-4680 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Occupational Safety & Health Enforcement - Budget Page B&I-135 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 210-4682
Mr. Combs read from page 4 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D). He reported the subcommittee recommended approval of the division’s request to eliminate an Industrial Hygienist III position located in Elko that had been vacant since September 2000. He explained the division determined there was insufficient workload to maintain a full-time position, and will utilize staff from the Reno office to serve the Elko area.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 210-4682 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Safety Consultation and Training - Budget Page B&I-140 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 210-4685
Mr. Combs stated the subcommittee concurred with the Governor’s recommendation to reduce contract services associated with the wide-based media campaign from $425,000 to $100,000 per year. He explained the agency was unable to determine the impact and effectiveness of the program. He noted the Safety Consultation and Training Section (SCATS) intends to modify the campaign to target specific industries to improve awareness of workplace safety issues. He added the subcommittee recommends elimination of a Management Assistant I position that has been vacant since January 2000.
Senator Raggio questioned whether the agency felt such a large adjustment was appropriate.
Michael J. Chapman, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, explained the agency performed an analysis of their wide-based media campaign, which included newspaper and television advertising. He said the agency determined the campaign targeted too broad of an area, so the agency is refocusing the campaign to target specific industries.
Senator Raggio asked Mr. Hataway whether he had any objections. Mr. Hataway indicated he had no objections.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 210-4685 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, NV Attorney for Injured Workers - Budget Page B&I-150 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-1013
Mr. Combs read from pages 4 and 5 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D). He reported the subcommittee reduced the Governor’s recommended funding of $128,425 for replacement computer equipment by $30,944. Additionally, he noted, the subcommittee reduced the Governor’s recommended funding of $45,553 for new equipment and computer programming by $676 for reduced cost of Maxtor hard drives and moved the remaining funding for Maxtor hard drives to FY 2002 instead of FY 2003.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-1013 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
B&I, Labor Commissioner - Budget Page B&I-179 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3900
Mr. Combs read from page 5 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Business and Industry dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit D).
Senator Raggio asked staff whether the salaries for the labor commissioner, deputy labor commissioner, and chief assistant labor commissioner could be addressed in the unclassified pay bill. He said the salaries for these positions have been maintained fairly low, primarily because of “the lack of performance in that office and that has changed dramatically. I think the new commissioner and his staff have really shown some zeal.” He commented the office is functioning better than it has in a long time and that should be taken into consideration when reviewing these salaries.
Mr. Hataway commented there have been significant improvements in that office. He noted the Budget Division included salary increases for these positions in the list of unclassified salary recommendations provided to the Legislature.
Senator Raggio commented he believes the Senate Committee on Government Affairs and this committee would agree with his comments regarding the performance of the labor commissioner’s office. He stated the Letter of Intent recommended by the subcommittee may be unnecessary as the salaries are a part of the unclassified pay bill, but he indicated the request for a Letter of Intent should remain in the motion as a recommendation of the subcommittee.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3900 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT INCLUDING THE REQUEST FOR A LETTER OF INTENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Buildings & Grounds - Budget Page ADMIN-66 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 710-1349
Mr. Combs read from pages 1 and 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on Higher Education and Capital Improvements Closing Report: State Public Works Board and Division of Buildings and Grounds dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit E. Original is on file in the Research Library.). He said the revenues and expenditures for new buildings proposed for the 2001 through 2003 biennium have been revised significantly from the amounts recommended in The Executive Budget. He stated the revisions are based on the addition of projects that have been recommended in the 2001 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and revised completion dates for CIP projects approved in previous CIP programs. Although the decision to include some of these buildings in the 2001 CIP program has not been made at this time, the subcommittee elected to include the division’s projected revenues and expenditures associated with these projects in the budget, he added.
Mr. Combs stated the changes recommended in this budget account are for those new buildings anticipated in the next biennium. He said the subcommittee authorized staff to make changes, if time permits, if certain projects are not approved in the legislatively approved CIP program. He pointed out the subcommittee recommended a Letter of Intent be sent to the administrator of the division instructing him to “de-augment revenue and expenditure authority” for any CIP projects not approved by the Legislature.
Mr. Combs stated the subcommittee approved $1,044,543 in FY 2002 and $700,927 in FY 2003 for building maintenance and renovation projects. He noted the Governor recommended $1,069,869 in FY 2002, but the subcommittee eliminated $25,326 in expenditures for projects that were duplicative of projects included in the 2001 CIP program.
Senator Raggio questioned whether Mr. Hataway had any concerns regarding the closing of this budget.
Mr. Hataway responded the only remaining area of concern is the potential impact of energy costs on this budget.
Mr. Ghiggeri commented that Mr. Combs left the reserve at a “healthy level” to allow for the potential impact of energy costs.
Mr. Hataway stated he would be reassured if there were some recognition this budget account could access funds through the IFC to assist the agency on a temporary basis, in case of emergency.
Senator Raggio stated utilities might be addressed in a separate fund to address this concern.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 710-1349 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Clear Creek Youth Center - Budget Page ADMIN-81 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1353
Mr. Combs read from pages 2 and 3 of the Joint Subcommittee on Higher Education and Capital Improvements Closing Report: State Public Works Board and Division of Buildings and Grounds dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit E). He reported the subcommittee voted to close the budget for the Clear Creek Youth Center as recommended by the Governor. He explained that the Division of Buildings and Grounds had indicated during subcommittee hearings that the Governor would probably recommend the transfer of the Clear Creek facility to the Division of State Parks prior to the end of session, but the subcommittee was informed that a delay in the completion of a business plan for the facility had resulted in the Governor deciding not to transfer the facility to the Division of State Parks at this time. Lastly, he stated the subcommittee concurred in that determination.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-1353 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Marlette Lake - Budget Page ADMIN-86 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 712-1366
Senator Raggio indicated he would accept a motion to close the budget as recommended by the Governor.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 712-1366 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE GOVERNOR.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Mr. Combs read the Public Works Board overview on page 3 of the Joint Subcommittee on Higher Education and Capital Improvements Closing Report: State Public Works Board and Division of Buildings and Grounds dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit E). He articulated the subcommittee approved the transfer of seven accounting positions from the Public Works Board budget accounts. He noted two of the positions were from the Board’s administration account and five were from the Board’s inspection account. He said the seven positions were approved to transfer to the Administrative Services Division of the Department of Administration as recommended by the Governor. He commented the agencies indicated that transferring the Board’s accounting staff to the Administrative Services Division would result in efficiencies for both agencies. He added the agencies indicate that having a larger staff assists in minimizing the impact of vacancies created by terminations and temporary leaves of absence. The Public Works Board indicated the administrator of the Administrative Services division might be able to assist the accounting staff in developing a more reliable method of allocating project and management and inspection fees to the various CIP projects, he added.
Public Works Administration - Budget Page ADMIN-90 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1560
Mr. Combs said the subcommittee considered the elimination of the facility audit program that was approved by the 1997 Legislature, but the subcommittee voted to provide continued funding in the base budget for the program. He articulated the program was approved to provide an analysis of all state buildings and includes 3 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions. He pointed out the subcommittee was concerned with the agency’s record of completing the audits and the effectiveness of the program in general, but the subcommittee ultimately agreed to provide the newly-appointed manager the opportunity to establish a more effective program.
Senator Raggio commented Senate members of this subcommittee have been impressed with the re-direction of effort by the State Public Works Board under the leadership of Daniel K. O’Brien, Manager, State Public Works Board, Department of Administration.
Public Works Inspection - Budget Page ADMIN-96 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 401-1562
Senator Raggio pointed out to Mr. Hataway salaries for the building inspectors for State Public Works Board should be increased from grade 33 to grade 35.
Mr. Hataway responded the Budget Division supports the increase, especially after reviewing the staff turnover rate and the competitive salaries in Clark County.
Mr. Combs read from pages 4 and 5 of the Joint Subcommittee on Higher Education and Capital Improvements Closing Report: State Public Works Board and Division of Buildings and Grounds dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit E). He pointed out the subcommittee approved funding for the costs of increasing 2 half-time Management Assistant positions to full-time in order to provide adequate administrative support for the Las Vegas office. He said the subcommittee also approved $263,912 in FY 2002 and $280,822 in FY 2003 for 3 new positions and various other expenditures to improve project management and coordination. He noted the Governor had recommended $736,580 in FY 2002 and $677,508 in FY 2003 for 5 new positions and other expenditures for the same purpose. He stated the subcommittee approved 3 new Project Manager positions. One position will provide supervision for the Las Vegas office, one position will serve as the fire protection engineer for the agency, and one position will be assigned to the Las Vegas office to manage projects in the Las Vegas area, he explained. He said the subcommittee did not approve an additional project manager position and a management analyst position that were recommended by the Governor.
Senator Raggio asked Mr. O’Brien whether the board could continue without 2 of their requested positions: 1 Project Manager position and 1 Management Analyst position eliminated by the subcommittee.
Mr. O’Brien indicated the board would survive without the 2 positions.
Senator Coffin said, “If Mr. O’Brien could live without those positions, could he make a case for something that has been left out until 2003, which is the question of electronic communication such as laptops.” He questioned whether there had been enough field inspectors on one large project that was recently audited. He added another large library project would be starting soon. He inquired whether new wireless communication would be effective to facilitate communication between the field inspector and the main office and to expedite the decision process, especially during arguments with contractors. He stated he has received numerous e-mails from the former inspector indicating he does not wish to “take all the blame for the problem at the Lied Library.” He suggested electronic communication devices such as PalmPilot could alleviate some of the inspectors’ problems.
Mr. O’Brien agreed with Senator Coffin’s statement. He said he requested additional laptop computers to enable inspectors to enter the data immediately from the field. He said during the 2001 to 2003 biennium five inspectors would receive laptops on a trial basis. He noted the inspectors have never had cellular phones; therefore, many contractors provide phones to the inspectors to facilitate communication on certain projects. He added cellular phones have been included in the budget for the 2001 to 2003 biennium, which is “a good start toward coming into the twenty-first century with the electronic age and telecommunications.” He commented the inspectors are willing to work with what they have been offered this session to address existing needs.
Senator Coffin commented the next library scheduled to be built would be even larger than the Lied Library. He stated he hopes the same mistakes will not be repeated.
Mr. Ghiggeri commented the funding provided for the laptop computers is being provided on a trial basis this time. He stated cellular phones are included in the budget. He said if the need for additional inspectors, cellular phones or laptop computers becomes justifiably evident during the interim, the State Public Works Board is authorized to approach IFC for augmentation from the various projects. He noted this budget account is funded from transfers from the various projects not from the General Fund.
Senator Raggio asked whether Mr. O’Brien understood Mr. Ghiggeri’s comment. Mr. O’Brien replied affirmatively.
Senator Mathews commented many of the problems experienced previously were a result of the State Public Works Board lacking the same authority many of the building departments have.
Mr. O’Brien stated the State Public Works Board is the building official of the state on all state projects, but the board has not been functioning as such. He said the state building inspectors have lacked the authority granted to many of the city and county building inspectors. He noted the board is in the process of implementing procedures to separate the plan check and building inspection function, which is a regulatory function for life safety issues from the project management owner representative function. He said the separation is necessary because the functions conflict when cost-issues are involved.
Mr. Combs said the subcommittee recommends funding to purchase Primavera Expedition software, which is project-scheduling software that the Board indicates, will assist in avoiding delays in projects and Lynx photo management software, which will enable the Board to create a photographic log of any project.
Senator Raggio asked whether Mr. O’Brien supports the requested increase in salaries for the building inspectors from grade 33 to grade 35. Mr. O’Brien responded affirmatively.
Mr. Combs commented there are currently 17 Building Inspector II positions, 1 Building Inspector III position, and 1 Chief Building Inspector position in budget account 401‑1562. He said increasing the salaries for the Building Inspector II positions necessitates similar increases in the other building inspector positions. He stated a two-grade increase for all 19 positions would be slightly less than a 10 percent raise and would cost approximately $86,476 in FY 2002 and $87,658 in FY 2003.
Senator Raggio asked Mr. O’Brien to guarantee consistent quality in exchange for the salary increases. Mr. O’Brien agreed to provide consistent quality.
Senator Coffin encouraged Mr. O’Brien not to hesitate in approaching IFC with any future problems. Mr. O’Brien agreed to keep the committee informed of any potential problems.
SENATOR MATHEWS MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNTS 101-1560 AND 401-1562 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING THE SALARY ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE INSPECTOR POSITIONS.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Children and Family Administration - Budget Page DCFS-1 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3145
Larry L. Peri, Senior Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau, read from pages 1 and 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F. Original is on file in the Research Library.). He reported that, in closing this budget, the subcommittee approved adjustments resulting in a net decrease in General Fund support of $31,827 in FY 2002 and $40,814 in FY 2003. In the salary category, he stated, the subcommittee approved the restoration of a Social Welfare Program Specialist II position that had been eliminated in the adjusted based budget.
SENATE BILL 288 OF THE SEVENTIETH SESSION: Authorizes certain counties to enter into agreement to establish pilot program to provide continuity of care for children who receive protective services. (BDR S-1028)
Mr. Peri clarified that, the position added by the passage of S.B. 288 of the Seventieth Session for a child welfare pilot project in Washoe County, was scheduled to sunset at the end of the current biennium. The Budget Division, he indicated, requested restoration of the position.
Mr. Peri continued by stating the subcommittee did not approve the decision unit (E-275), which recommended funding to expand and remodel office space in the Belrose office building in Las Vegas. He added that the Child Welfare Integration Proposal recommended that Clark County occupy that building. Clark County, he stated, had indicated they are not receptive to taking over that facility. Therefore, he added, the subcommittee did not feel it was a prudent to invest nearly $383,000 in building improvements.
Senator Raggio asked Stephen A. Shaw, Administrator, Division of Child and Family Services, Department of Human Resources, to make known any objections he may have during the closing of the budgets. Mr. Shaw indicated he would.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3145 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING STAFF ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, UNITY/SACWIS - Budget Page DCFS-13 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3143
Mr. Peri read from page 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). He reported the subcommittee closed this budget primarily as recommended by the Governor, which included the transfer of 12 existing Information Systems Specialist positions from DoIT. Technical adjustment, he added, on computer hardware costs decrease General Fund support in the budget by $82,036 in FY 2002 and $39,471 in FY 2003.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3143 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING STAFF ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR COFFIN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Child Care Services - Budget Page DCFS-19 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3149
Mr. Peri read from page 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). He reported the subcommittee closed this budget primarily as recommended by the Governor, which included 7 new positions to accommodate a projected increase in foster care licensing activity. He stated the Adoption and Safe Families Act requires that relatives receiving foster care payments must be licensed as foster parents.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3149 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING STAFF ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Youth Community Services - Budget Page DCFS-24 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3229
Mr. Peri indicated this budget account is commonly referred to as “the child welfare budget.” He read from pages 2 and 3 of the Joint Subcommittee on K‑12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). He articulated the subcommittee closed this budget by making adjustments resulting in a decrease in General Fund support of $508,530 in FY 2002 and $744,345 in FY 2003. He said the adjustments were based on several items, primarily on a revised revenue analysis completed by the division and on the addition of $150,000 in each year of the biennium of Title XX revenue. The subcommittee recommended approval of several significant enhancements also recommended by the Governor, including approximately $5 million over the biennium for projected increases in subsidized adoptions and over $9.1 million over the biennium in foster care rate increases and in adoption subsidy payment increases. He stated the subcommittee removed nearly $13 million in General Fund support recommended by the Governor for the integration of state and local child welfare systems. He added the subcommittee recommended that if the integration proposal is approved, a separate budget account should be established to isolate all costs of the integration.
Senator Raggio commented the integration project is in a bill currently in the Assembly.
Mr. Peri responded the $13 million is in this budget account, and he believes Senator Raggio is referring to A.B. 512, which provides nearly $8 million for costs associated with the transfer.
ASSEMBLY BILL 512: Makes appropriation to Department of Human Resources for costs associated with transfer of certain child welfare services to Clark County and Washoe County. (BDR S-1403)
Senator Raggio commented the $13 million has been removed from budget account 101-3229 pending the approval of A.B. 343, which provides for the integration of state and local child welfare systems.
ASSEMBLY BILL 343: Provides for integration of state and local child welfare services. (BDR 11-325)
Mr. Peri responded A.B. 343, which provides for the integration, is currently in the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means.
Senator Raggio said a question has been raised regarding the ability of the state “to have some input into future costs and some justification of those costs,” if the integration occurs. He noted the portion of the amount the state will be expected to pay on a continuing basis is unclear. He said the counties have indicated they expect the state to pay approximately 55 percent, and this will need to be addressed when processing A.B. 343.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3229 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING STAFF ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Child Welfare Trust - Budget Page DCFS-33 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 645-3242
Mr. Peri stated the subcommittee closed this budget account as the Governor recommended with staff adjustments.
SENATOR COFFIN MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 645-3242 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING STAFF ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Victims of Domestic Violence - Budget Page DCFS-36 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3181
E-250 Eliminate Duplicate Effort – Page DCFS-37
Mr. Peri articulated the Governor recommended this budget be transferred to the Grants Management Unit, but the transfer was not approved.
E-275 Working Environment & Wage – Page DCFS-37
Mr. Peri pointed out this decision unit would have allowed 2 percent of the marriage license revenues to be used for administrative costs in the Grants Management Unit. He noted the 2 percent administrative costs were proposed in A.B. 583 on which no action was taken. He commented the subcommittee’s closing actions reversed the Governor’s recommendations and restored this account to its present form.
ASSEMBLY BILL 583: Revises provisions governing administration of grants from account for aid for victims of domestic violence. (BDR 16-537)
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3181 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING THE ELIMINATION OF DECISION UNITS E-250 AND E-275 AND THE DISALLOWANCE OF 2 PERCENT OF THE MARRIAGE LICENSE REVENUE BEING USED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Children’s Trust Account - Budget Page DCFS-39 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3201
Mr. Peri stated the subcommittee closed this budget by restoring the account, thereby reversing the Governor’s recommendation to transfer it to the Grants Management Unit.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3201 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Child Abuse and Neglect - Budget Page DCFS-42 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3271
Mr. Peri stated the subcommittee closed this budget as the Governor recommended.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3271 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, CFS Juvenile Justice Programs - Budget Page DCFS-45 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-1383
Mr. Peri stated the subcommittee closed this budget as the Governor recommended with the continuation of a Letter of Intent that requires a semi-annual report to the IFC on the Community Corrections Block Grant Program.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-1383 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES INCLUDING THE CONTINUATION OF A LETTER OF INTENT THAT REQUIRES A SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT TO INTERIM FINANCE COMMITTEE ON THE COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM.
SENATOR COFFIN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, DCFS – Juvenile Accountability Block Grant -Budget Page DCFS-49 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3262
Mr. Peri stated the subcommittee recommended several changes to this budget account primarily dealing with maintaining the federal grant award at the current FY 2001 level. He noted the subcommittee’s recommendation resulted in increased amounts of $21,630 each year of the biennium being available to transfer to the HR, C&FS ‑ Juvenile Correctional Facility budget account 101‑3148 for the facility known as Summit View. He said the subcommittee also approved the transfer of $324,780 of discretionary federal grant funds to Summit View in FY 2002.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3262 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Youth Alternative Placement - Budget Page DCFS-53 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3147
Mr. Peri read from page 4 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). He reported that, in closing this budget, the subcommittee approved amendments to the China Spring Youth Camp budget account. The amendments, he indicated, submitted by representatives of the camp, reduce the recommended budget due to delays in the opening of the planned Aurora Pine Girls’ Facility. The facility opening will be delayed until July 2002 and will be reduced from 24 to 16 beds, he indicated. Mr. Peri stated the amendments reduce General Fund support by $181,064 in FY 2002 and $102,017 in FY 2003.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3147 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Mr. Hataway articulated he had been working with Assemblyman Lynn C. Hettrick, Assembly District No. 39, on the issue of cost of living adjustments (COLAs) for the employees in the Youth Alternative Placement budget account. He said the COLA issue was overlooked at the subcommittee hearing, but the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means closed this budget with the COLA. He asked the Senate Committee on Finance to include the adjustment in their closing also.
E-402 Reduce Recidivism & Juvenile VI – Page DCFS-54
Mr. Peri directed attention to page 27 of Exhibit F, which states China Spring representatives requested a portion of the savings resulting from the delayed opening of the new Aurora Pines Girls’ Facility be added to the China Spring budget in the 2001-03 biennium. He pointed out the written request from China Spring representatives is included as pages 28 through 30 of Exhibit F. He said Mr. Hataway is referring to Section B of Item Number 1 on page 28 of Exhibit F. He noted subsections 1, 2, and 3 of Section B of Item Number 1 were addressed by the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means earlier this morning regarding salary increases and provisions for the China Spring employees. He said the items included in subsections 1, 2, and 3 of Section B of Item Number 1 total $102,347 in FY 2002.
Senator Raggio asked whether this action would be consistent with similar facilities. Mr. Peri responded China Spring Youth Camp is a county-operated facility funded partially by the General Fund and partially from assessments received from 16 counties.
Senator Raggio inquired whether Spring Mountain Youth Camp is handled similarly. Mr. Peri responded Spring Mountain Youth Camp only accepts youth from Clark County, and the Youth Alternative Placement budget account contributes to their operating expenses.
Senator Raggio said he wants to make sure the employees of the two facilities are not treated differently. Mr. Peri agreed.
Senator Rawson commented the county would contribute to the increases also.
Mr. Peri responded any proposed increases would be borne by the state at 36.83 percent and 16 of the 17 Nevada counties, including Douglas County, would pay the nearly 63 percent remainder. Clark County would not have to pay for these increases, as they are not affected.
Mr. Hataway commented of the approximately $102,000, only about 36 percent would be General Fund dollars.
Senator Raggio questioned how much it would be.
Mr. Peri articulated the total amount, including the salary adjustments approved by the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, is $102,347 in FY 2002. The General Fund portion, or 36.83 percent, would be $37,694, he added. He said county contributions would provide the remaining $64,653. He directed attention to page 29 of Exhibit F. He said the amounts included in subsections 1, 2, and 3 of Section B of Item Number 2 should be added to the base amount of $102,347 for a combined total of $118,265 that would be needed in FY 2003. He stated the General Fund portion would be $43,557 and the county contribution portion would be $74,708.
Senator Raggio asked whether Mr. Hataway endorses the proposed action.
Mr. Hataway responded this situation is similar to the coordination efforts between California and Nevada organized by the Tahoe Regional Planning Association (TRPA).
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3147 CONSISTENT WITH THE ACTIONS OF THE ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS INCLUDING THE ADJUSTED SALARIES.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, C&FS – Juvenile Correctional Facility - Budget Page DCFS-56 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3148
Mr. Peri pointed out this facility, known as Summit View Youth Camp, is a relatively new facility located in Clark County. He read from page 4 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). He reported the subcommittee closed this budget by approving an increase in the transfer of funds from the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant Program budget. Transfers were increased, he added, by $346,410 in FY 2002 and $21,630 in FY 2003 and result in corresponding General Fund reductions. Mr. Peri indicated the subcommittee also restored funding for three contract beds, which was recommended for transfer to the Youth Alternative Placement budget account. If necessary, he added, funds can be expended from this budget for specialized placements.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3148 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, C&FS – Caliente Youth Center - Budget Page DCFS-59 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3179
Mr. Peri stated there was a very minor technical adjustment to the superintendent’s unclassified salary to properly reflect the retirement code that resulted in a General Fund reduction of $1,261 in FY 2002 and $1,299 in FY 2003.
Senator Raggio inquired about the present occupancy of the facility.
Mr. Peri responded there are seven housing units with a capacity of 20 occupants per unit, for a total capacity of 140 occupants, and the facility is always fully occupied. He noted the facility often has more than 140 occupants.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3179 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Nevada Youth Training Center - Budget Page DCFS-63 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3259
Mr. Peri said the only significant change in this budget account is the subcommittee’s recommendation to add $90,000 of Title XX revenue in each year of the biennium. He noted the General Fund support was reduced by the same amounts in each year of the biennium.
Senator Raggio questioned whether that action was appropriate. Mr. Peri responded that representatives of the director of the Department of Human Resources indicated some of the services provided by the center could qualify for Title XX funds.
Senator Raggio inquired whether the chukar program would be continued after the retirement of Ed Burgess, Superintendent, Nevada Youth Training Center, Division of Child and Family Services, Department of Human Resources.
Stephen A. Shaw, Administrator, Division of Child and Family Services, Department of Human Resources, responded Mr. Burgess’ retirement is effective on July 14, 2001, and he hopes the chukar program continues after his retirement.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3259 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Youth Parole Services - Budget Page DCFS-69 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3263
Mr. Peri stated the only adjustments in this budget were those to the purchasing assessments that resulted in a reduction in General Fund support of $1,533 in each year of the biennium.
Senator Raggio questioned whether the 36 positions in this budget are adequate. Mr. Shaw indicated the number of positions are adequate.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3263 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES WITH THE ADJUSTMENTS TO THE PURCHASING ASSESSMENTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Northern Nevada Child & Adolescent Services - Budget Page DCFS-76 (Volume 2) Budget Account 101-3281
Mr. Peri read from page 5 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). He reported that in closing this budget the subcommittee approved the addition of $125,000 each year of Title XX revenue. General Fund support, he added, was reduced by the same amounts. Mr. Peri indicated the subcommittee also approved the recording mechanism designed to account for payments made to Mojave Mental Health Services for clients referred from Northern Nevada Child and Adolescent Services. He indicated this adjustment allows for the display of Medicaid expenditures made on behalf of clients referred to Mojave. He stated the adjustment for payments to Mojave totals $283,981 in FY 2002 and $289,661 in FY 2003.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3281 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
HR, Southern Nevada Child & Adolescent Services - Budget Page DCFS-83 (Volume 2)
Budget Account 101-3646
Mr. Peri read from pages 5 and 6 of the Joint Subcommittee on K-12/Human Resources Closing Report: Division of Child and Family Services dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit F). Mr. Peri indicated that in closing this budget the subcommittee increased Title XX revenue by $50,000 in each year of the biennium. Further, he added, the subcommittee also approved a recording format for payments to Mojave Mental Health Services in the same manner as noted for the Northern Nevada Child and Adolescent Services. Mr. Peri indicated the recommended amounts are $570,407 in FY 2002 and $581,816 in FY 2003.
Continuing, Mr. Peri remarked that the subcommittee also approved 5.51 full-time equivalency (FTE) new positions that were recommended in the budget for the agency’s Fiscal Unit. The positions, he indicated, are recommended to improve the collection of federal revenues.
Mr. Peri added that the subcommittee also approved 9 new FTE staff for the Desert Willow Treatment Center. He stated that recent surveys conducted by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations and the State Health Division indicated there was insufficient staffing at the facility. He further reported, if uncorrected, this could lead to a loss of Medicaid certification and the inability to collect Medicaid funds.
Lastly, Mr. Peri stated the agency continues to experience problems in staffing and operating the on-campus Family Learning Homes. Currently only four of seven homes are open with a capacity of 22 beds, he said. Additionally the subcommittee considered several options before recommending that no changes be made to the recommended budget. Mr. Peri reported that instead, the subcommittee recommended a Letter of Intent be issued requiring the agency to report quarterly to the IFC on the status of the Family Learning Homes. The reports, he advised, should address any changes in staffing and the treatment model, and on remediation efforts of the mold problem.
In closing Mr. Peri concluded that total General Fund savings based on the subcommittee’s closing actions are $1,258,316 in FY 2002 and $1,377,688 in FY 2003, for a total of $2,636,004 over the 2001-2003 biennium.
Senator Raggio questioned whether the 9 new positions recommended for the Desert Willow Treatment Center were sufficient to avoid the threat of losing Medicaid certification and the ability to collect Medicaid funds.
Mr. Peri replied that according to the projections of the agency, the additional positions would satisfy the staffing requirements.
SENATOR RAWSON MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-3646 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON K-12/HUMAN RESOURCES.
SENATOR JACOBSEN SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Bob Atkinson, Program Analyst, Fiscal Analysis Division, Legislative Counsel Bureau read verbatim from pages 1 and 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Judicial Branch dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit G. Original is on file in the Research Library.). He reported the joint subcommittee reviewed the 13 budgets of the judicial branch, adding there were a number of items that have an effect on the judicial branch.
SENATE BILL 184: Adjusts prospective salary of supreme court justices and district court judges. (BDR 1-517)
Mr. Atkinson suggested the first effect is that S.B. 184, if not passed or approved in an amended version, will necessitate adjustments in the Supreme Court budget account and the District Judges’ Salary budget account.
ASSEMBLY BILL 232: Establishes judicial retirement system for certain justices of the supreme court and district court judges. (BDR 1-208)
The second effect Mr. Atkinson mentioned was A.B. 232. He pointed out that adjustments will be necessary in the budget accounts for the Supreme Court, the District Judges’ Salaries, the District Judges’ and Survivors Pensions, and the Supreme Court Justices’ and Survivors’ Pension budget accounts if this bill is not approved.
The third effect, discussed by Mr. Atkinson, is that a number of budget accounts included requests for unclassified pay increases over and above the 9 percent and 4 percent increases recommended by the Governor for all unclassified positions. He indicated these additional increases were requested for the Chief Deputy Clerk, the Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts, the Deputy Director, the deputy for the Division of Planning and Analysis and the Law Librarian. The subcommittee, he indicated, does not recommend the approval of these additional requests, but would recommend that these requests be given consideration in development of the unclassified pay bill.
Senator Raggio asked staff to consult with the various agencies that have not previously addressed the issue (with staff) concerning positions included in the unclassified pay bill.
Mr. Ghiggeri said staff received a letter from the Supreme Court regarding the unclassified positions. The letter will be provided to the subcommittee when the unclassified pay bill is addressed, he added.
Senator Raggio commented he was referring to all of the other agencies that also have unclassified positions to be considered. Mr. Ghiggeri nodded in agreement.
Supreme Court - Budget Page COURTS-1 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1494
Mr. Atkinson read verbatim from page 2 of (Exhibit G). He reported the subcommittee received information from the court that indicated that the construction of the Regional Justice Center in Las Vegas is delayed and will not be available for occupancy until July, 2003. He noted that, based on this information, the subcommittee recommended adjustments to the relocation and occupancy costs that had been requested in this account.
Mr. Atkinson indicated the subcommittee recommended approval of a new Deputy Supervisory Staff Attorney position to assist the court clerk in reporting judicial decision and a Management Analyst III to coordinate a new Court Interpreters Certification Program. He explained that the subcommittee did not recommend the requests for an Information System Specialist position, a Website Administrator position, and a Case Management System Specialist position.
Mr. Atkinson stated the subcommittee withdrew the requested new case management system pursuant to the Supreme Court’s request. He noted the Supreme Court indicated they would like additional time to release a request for proposal (RFP) and receive bids for the new system. He commented the subcommittee suggested the Supreme Court approach IFC once cost estimates of a new system are known.
Senator Raggio questioned whether the Supreme Court has the authority to approach IFC for that purpose. Mr. Atkinson responded affirmatively.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 101-1494 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Division of Planning & Analysis - Budget Page COURTS-13 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1484
Uniform System of Judicial Records - Budget Page COURTS-18 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1486
Mr. Atkinson read verbatim from page 3 of (Exhibit G). He articulated the subcommittee recommends the approval of a new court business analyst to assist the trial courts with their case management system, but does not recommend the requested new court research analyst. He reported the subcommittee recommended the approval of the requested Computer Network Specialist position to assist the trial courts with their automated systems, but recommends that the position be funded in the Uniform System of Judicial Records budget account, rather than the Division of Planning and Analysis budget account.
Senator Raggio inquired whether there was any objection from the court representatives on the closing of these budgets in subcommittee. Mr. Atkinson replied there was not.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNTS 101-1484 AND 101-1486 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Mr. Atkinson stated the subcommittee closed the following accounts with only minor technical adjustments.
Administrative Office of the Courts - Budget Page COURTS-9 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1483
Judicial Education - Budget Page COURTS-21 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1487
District Judges’ Salary - Budget Page COURTS-25 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1490
District Judges’ and Widows’ Pension - Budget Page COURTS-28 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1491
Supreme Court Justices’ and Widows’ Pension - Budget Page COURTS‑30 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1492
District Judges Travel - Budget Page COURTS-32 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1493
Retired Justice Duty Fund - Budget Page COURTS-35 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1496
Judicial Selection - Budget Page COURTS-36 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1498
Law Library - Budget Page COURTS-38 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-2889
Judicial Discipline - Budget Page COURTS-43 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 101-1497
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNTS 101-1483, 101‑1487, 101-1490, 101-1491, 101-1492, 101-1493, 101-1496, 101‑1498, 101-2889, AND 101-1497 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT WITH MINOR TECHNICAL ADJUSTMENTS.
SENATOR MATHEWS SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
Senator Raggio pointed out the committee’s actions today are subject to whatever actions are taken on the bills concerning salaries and retirement.
Mr. Atkinson summarized the committee’s closing actions on the courts’ budgets resulted in decreased General Fund support of $659,884 in FY 2002 and $1,240,188 in FY 2003.
Mr. Rodriguez read verbatim from pages 1 and 2 of the Joint Subcommittee on General Government Closing Report: Department of Information Technology dated May 18, 2001 (Exhibit H. Original is on file in the Research Library.). He said the closing actions of the subcommittee have resulted in an overall operational cost savings for the department of $2.3 million in FY 2002 and $1.6 million in FY 2003. He noted reduced operational costs in combination with the department’s revised utilization projections results in General Fund savings in agency budgets of approximately $2.5 million in FY 2002 and $2.4 million in FY 2003.
DoIT Director’s Office - Budget Page DoIT-1 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 721-1373
Mr. Rodriguez reported the subcommittee approved the Director’s Office budget account as recommended by the Governor with technical adjustments. He added that the subcommittee approved a budgetary amendment to The Executive Budget as proposed by the department. In addition, he stated, the subcommittee approved the department’s request to reorganize its billings and administrative organization, reclassify a currently vacant Management Assistant III position to an Administrative Service Officer III (ASO) and reclassify its Chief Accountant position to an ASO III. The department’s proposal was submitted in response to a request made by the subcommittee, he indicated, which directed the department to develop a budgetary action plan to address administrative and managerial problems within the department.
In closing, Mr. Rodriguez said the subcommittee recommended that a Letter of Intent be issued to the department requesting that the department provide quarterly status reports on the department’s billing and administrative system to the IFC and LCB’s Fiscal Analysis Division.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 721-1373 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
DoIT Planning & Research Unit - Budget Page DoIT-7 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 721-1370
Mr. Rodriguez read verbatim from page 2 of Exhibit H. He reported the subcommittee modified the Governor’s recommendations for additional project management staff and additional training funds. He advised the subcommittee approved funding for 1 new Project Manager Position as opposed to the 2 positions recommended in The Executive Budget. Further, he stated, the subcommittee reduced the amount of increased funding recommended for training from $2,500 per FTE to approximately $2,000 per FTE, or 3 percent of budgeted salaries. Mr. Rodriguez clarified that the adjustment was made with the understanding that, should additional training funds be needed during the interim, the department could submit a request to the IFC for additional authority.
Senator Raggio inquired whether the department has indicated it can survive without the positions eliminated by the subcommittee. Mr. Rodriguez responded that the department has concurred with the subcommittee’s actions.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 721-1370 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
DoIT Application Design & Development Unit - Budget Page DoIT-14 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 721-1365
Mr. Rodriguez read verbatim from pages 2 through 4 of Exhibit H. He reported that the subcommittee modified the Governor’s recommendation to reclassify 3 Data Entry positions as Computer System Technicians and transfer the positions to other DoIT budgets. He indicated the subcommittee proposed the department maintain the position in the budget until October 1, 2001, when the classification for all existing Data Entry Operator positions automatically converts to the classification of Management Assistant positions. Further, he stated, the subcommittee provided the department with authority to create 3 new Computer System Technician positions in the budget accounts originally identified to receive the transfer effective October 1, 2001. He confirmed the department concurred with the subcommittee’s recommendation and concluded that the alternative plan more adequately addressed the department’s needs.
Mr. Rodriguez reported the subcommittee recommended that a Letter of Intent be issued to the department requesting quarterly status reports on the department’s decentralization pilot program. He informed the committee that the department’s decentralization plan involves transferring 19 Programming positions and 2 Data Entry Operators to the agencies where the programming staff is dedicated. Included in the pilot program, he said are Project Unity, the Department of Taxation, the Secretary of State’s office, and the Department of Personnel.
Lastly, Mr. Rodriguez reported that the subcommittee recommended a Letter of Intent to include the requirement the department provide similar quarterly performance reports on its plan to transfer its master service agreement (MSA) funding responsibilities to the respective agencies. The subcommittee’s recommendation for a Letter of Intent, he stated, is designed to ensure that adequate monitoring and evaluation activities associated with the department’s MSAs transfer and programmer decentralization plans are performed.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 721-1365 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT INCLUDING TWO LETTERS OF INTENT. THE FIRST LETTER OF INTENT IS TO REQUEST QUARTERLY STATUS REPORTS ON THE DEPARTMENT’S DECENTRALIZATION PILOT PROGRAM. THE SECOND LETTER OF INTENT IS TO INCLUDE THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE DEPARTMENT PROVIDE QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORTS ON ITS PLAN TO TRANSFER ITS MASTER SERVICE AGREEMENT FUNDING RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE RESPECTIVE AGENCIES.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
DoIT Computing Division - Budget Page DoIT-23 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 721-1385
Mr. Rodriguez read from pages 4 through 6 of Exhibit H. He reported the subcommittee closed the department’s computing budget with significant modifications to the Governor’s personnel and equipment recommendations. He stated information on projected reductions in the central processing unit (CPU) utilization presented by the department resulted in the subcommittee deleting the Governor’s recommendation to fund an upgrade of the department’s R-46 mainframe computer to an R‑56 configuration, which would have increased current CPU computing capacity by 120 million of instructions per second, or 25 percent. He indicated the department testified that projected usage indicates an upgrade to the state’s mainframe could be deferred to the next biennium. This action alone, he advised, resulted in a cost savings to the department’s operations of $1.1 million in FY 2002 and $1.2 million in FY 2003.
Mr. Rodriguez recollected The Executive Budget recommended $1,038,867 in FY 2002 and $617,151 in FY 2003 to fund the department’s planned web development capabilities and capacity. He stated this includes the addition of 8 new programming positions and over $1 million in operating and equipment costs during the course of the biennium. Based on the supporting documentation provided by the department and information provided from user agencies and the Budget Division, Mr. Rodriguez said, the subcommittee voted to reduce the number of positions recommended from 8 to 4 with a corresponding reduction in computing equipment. These adjustments, he stated, resulted in a total cost reduction of $488,069 over the biennium.
Mr. Rodriguez informed the committee the subcommittee also recommended that the department finance its major hardware as opposed to a cash purchase. By tying the financing repayment period to the department’s allowable depreciation schedule, he estimated that the department could save as much as $387,668 over the biennium.
Mr. Rodriguez said the subcommittee adjusted the amount of additional training funds recommended in The Executive Budget. He indicated the subcommittee agreed with the Governor’s recommendation that additional funding for training should be a priority. However, he indicated, the subcommittee did not believe that the department had the capability to fully utilize the level of funding being requested. Mr. Rodriguez stated The Executive Budget recommended the equivalent of 10 percent of the department’s budgeted salaries be reserved for training. For DoIT’s Computing Division, he stated, 10 percent of budgeted salaries equated to approximately $261,750 in FY 2002 and $276,350 in FY 2003, which is approximately 360 percent more than the division’s average training expenditures over the past 3 years.
Mr. Rodriguez indicated that based on the department’s historical training expenditures, the subcommittee felt that the amount of funding being recommended for training in this budget is unrealistic. The subcommittee, he said, voted to increase funding for training at the staff recommended level of $159,000 per year, or approximately 118 percent above the division’s adjusted base expenditures. Based on the information provided by the department, he advised, this recommended level of funding would provide the division with adequate funding to achieve the classification of a “well trained” information technology staff. Further, he said, the subcommittee makes this recommendation with the understanding that if the department requires additional funding for training during the interim, the department could submit a request for additional funding to the IFC.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNT 721-1385 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THE DIVISION CAN APPROACH THE INTERIM FINANCE COMMITTEE FOR ADDITIONAL TRAINING FUNDS IF NECESSARY.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
DoIT Telecommunications - Budget Page DoIT-38 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 721-1387
DoIT Communications - Budget Page DoIT-43 (Volume 1)
Budget Account 721-1388
Mr. Rodriguez stated both budget accounts 721-1387 and 721-1388 were closed as recommended by the Governor, with minor technical adjustments.
SENATOR NEAL MOVED TO CLOSE BUDGET ACCOUNTS 721-1387 AND 721-1388 AS RECOMMENDED BY THE JOINT SUBCOMMITTEE ON GENERAL GOVERNMENT.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
BILL DRAFT REQUEST 38-1552: Transfers responsibility for administering program for property tax assistance for senior citizens from department of taxation to aging services division of department of human resources. (Later introduced as Senate Bill 574.)
SENATOR JACOBSEN MOVED TO INTRODUCE BDR 38-1552.
SENATOR RAWSON SECONDED THE MOTION.
THE MOTION CARRIED. (SENATOR O’DONNELL WAS ABSENT FOR THE VOTE.)
*****
The meeting was adjourned at 10:39 a.m.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED:
Jennifer Ruedy
Committee Secretary
APPROVED BY:
Senator William J. Raggio, Chairman
DATE: