The House and Senate convened this morning with every intention of adjourning today. Both chambers have been running concurrence bills (ones they've agreed on), or dealing with conference reports (bills that have been in dispute).
Last night the House passed HB 2021 (52-45), which eliminates the automatic alternative Uniform COLA for PERS and TRS Plan 1 members, an adjustment that was put in place in the 90s. The bill also would increase the alternative minimum benefit from $1,000 to $1,500.
The bill was sent to the Senate (where it had not been heard yet) and moved directly to the floor. The Senate Ways & Means Committee had heard an identical bill, SB 5920, and passed it from committee a week ago, but hadn't worked through the full process on HB 2021.
HB 2021 passed the Senate 28-17 after very little debate; it represents a savings to the state general fund of about $360 million net.
Meanwhile, TVW is doing is "sine die" interviews, and the Governor is making an announcement about special session at 1 p.m. today.
Last night the House passed HB 2021 (52-45), which eliminates the automatic alternative Uniform COLA for PERS and TRS Plan 1 members, an adjustment that was put in place in the 90s. The bill also would increase the alternative minimum benefit from $1,000 to $1,500.
The bill was sent to the Senate (where it had not been heard yet) and moved directly to the floor. The Senate Ways & Means Committee had heard an identical bill, SB 5920, and passed it from committee a week ago, but hadn't worked through the full process on HB 2021.
HB 2021 passed the Senate 28-17 after very little debate; it represents a savings to the state general fund of about $360 million net.
Meanwhile, TVW is doing is "sine die" interviews, and the Governor is making an announcement about special session at 1 p.m. today.
