April 10, 2009

Hinkle proposes legislation to limit 2010 Legislature to 45 days
'It's estimated we'll save up to $3 million for the biennium by limiting the next session to 45 days instead of 60,' says Hinkle

Rep. Bill Hinkle, R-Cle Elum, introduced legislation today that would save the state $3 million in the legislative budget by limiting the next session to 45 days.

House Concurrent Resolution 4405 would require the 2010 Legislature to adjourn in 45 days or less, as opposed to the normal 60-day session during non-budget years.

"We are certainly in some extraordinary times as far as our state budget is concerned," Hinkle said.  "We're looking for creative ways to cut costs wherever we can and I think the supplemental budget year is the perfect opportunity.  It's estimated we'll save up to $3 million for the biennium by limiting the next session to 45 days instead of 60.

"By limiting the amount of time the Legislature is in session, we'll also be reducing the amount of bills introduced to spend taxpayer dollars," Hinkle continued.  "In a supplemental budget year, we should quickly focus on updating our budget, based on caseload projections, the most recent revenue forecast and any unforeseen emergencies -- and then we need to get out of Dodge.  What's the old adage?  'No man's life, liberty or property is safe while the Legislature is in session.'  Let's take care of our constitutional obligations and then save the taxpayers some money by going home early."

Hinkle also supports cancelling committee days during the interim as a way to further save money.

"Committee days during the interim serve an important purpose," Hinkle said.  "But I can't imagine that there's anything so dire that it can't wait until the next session.  At the very least we should hold these meetings via telephone conference calls or something similar.  Let's utilize some technology instead of paying thousands of dollars in mileage and per diem.

"Again, these are some very unique and extraordinary times.  We need to think outside the box and abandon the 'business as usual' approach," he added

HCR 4405 has been referred to the House Committee on State Government and Tribal Affairs.

The 105-day 2009 session is scheduled to end April 26.

# # #

For more information, contact: Brendon Wold, Senior Information Officer: (360) 786-7698