Thomas J Walters

The lawmaker explains that the bill is a necessary first step to fully fund the retirement system within 30 years, which will eventually allow employees to receive cost-of-living adjustments.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because adding specific community projects at this late stage would open the floodgates for similar requests, bypassing the established vetting process based on need.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because it removes necessary flexibility for local government investments and duplicates policies already managed by investment officials.

The lawmaker supports a no vote because they believe the committee met multiple times and properly vetted the bills.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because they believe it reduces the amount of relief too much and cuts the duration to one year, arguing that two years is needed for a real solution.

The lawmaker argues that authorizing $50 million creates a financial commitment equivalent to spending, whereas reducing the amount allows for partnership with the executive branch without overextending state finances.

The lawmaker urges a vote on the amendment, stating that without maximum flexibility for the governor to spend these one-time dollars in Wyoming, there will be no savings and it will be a lost opportunity.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because they believe it violates the state constitution which limits aid to necessary support of the poor.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because it has been part of the budget for over 30 years to ensure high-quality services.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because they believe it is necessary to bring vacant positions up to market value in order to successfully recruit and retain employees.

The lawmaker supports the amendment because it provides necessary staffing to keep up with exponential growth in the gaming industry.

The speaker supports the bill because judicial officials and attorneys on both sides indicated that extending the timeline from filing to scheduling order issuance allows necessary time for pre-trial activities.

The lawmaker urges a vote in favor of the bill to help public employees achieve full funding for their retirement plans more quickly and with greater stability.

The speaker states that passing this bill is necessary to use the money as suggested by opponents because alternative processes cannot be completed in time before the July deadline.