NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates/Conflicts with/Companion to/Relates to

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 353 creates a new division, the Office of the Commissioners, in the Public Regulation Commission (PRC).

Significant Issues

The Legislative Finance Committee (LFC) recommended that the Legislature create a new division to appropriate funding specifically to the PRC Commissioners. The commissioners would be able to use this appropriation to fund their salaries and those of their personal staff assistants and other operating costs, such as training and travel. Currently, the commissioners and staff are co-mingled with the administrative services division. Under this organization, the commissioners hired 5.0 additional personal staff assistants in FY01 than were authorized by the Legislature. As a result, the PRC currently faces a budget deficit of almost $300.0.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

Enactment of House Bill 353 would make clear the legislative intent for funding for the PRC commissioners, staff, and travel budgets. The bill would not have an additional fiscal impact on the agency.

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