Under the Golden Dome
This week was relatively uneventful for issues important to IMHCA members. The Revenue Estimating Council (REC) met to set the amount of growth expected in state revenues. This is important because it guides legislators in finalizing the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The REC lowered growth projections, largely in response to the tax bill that will reduce income tax rates. The House began work on its budget bills but the Senate has yet to release its budget targets.
Next week is the second funnel deadline. This is a self-imposed deadline that legislators use to determine what legislative priorities will continue to move. To remain alive for consideration, a bill must pass one chamber and a committee in the other chamber. This does not apply to bills in the appropriations or ways and means committees. And, it’s always important to remember, nothing is truly dead until the legislature adjourns.
IMHCA held it’s annual Day on the Hill on March 7. Mother Nature did not cooperate but a few hearty souls still made the journey to the Capitol to advocate on behalf of IMHCA members. Unfortunately, House Republicans spent the majority of that day behind closed doors in caucus, limiting our ability to have conversations with them. A big thank you to those who did attend and helped to advance our cause.
Look for a full report on where legislation important to IMHCA members next week after the funnel deadline.