An interim committee will be taking an in-depth look at the duties and responsibilities of the Legislature’s Budget Section.
The Budget Section is made up of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, as well as both parties’ floor leaders. Its roles have expanded over the years, and some critics say it is a mini-Legislature.
"I know there are concerns about such things as the Budget Section starting a program, or funds a new FTE, or changes the scope or size of building projects," said Rep. Jeff Delzer (R-Underwood), the chairman of the interim Government Services Committee. "It basically disenfranchises legislators who don't have an opportunity to be part of it."
Delzer says there are 84 duties assigned to the Budget Section. And he says the study will look at every one of the duties.
Delzer also chairs the House Appropriations Committee.