Tony Ross

The lawmaker argues that despite technical errors and reorganization in the amendments, the bill is important enough to pass immediately rather than waiting for corrections next year.

The lawmaker opposes the bill because he believes a statute limits Abandoned Mine Land funds to reclamation of land and water resources affected by coal mining, which he argues does not clearly apply to the Bitter Creek project.

The lawmaker supports the bill because it allows private hospitals to contribute non-federal funds to match federal money, thereby increasing total Medicaid payments and drawing down more federal funding. He also notes that this addresses systematic underpayment of providers by the current system.

The lawmaker supports the amendment to restrict $750,000 from the prison land fund for consultants only and requires governor approval for consulting contracts after evaluating remedies.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because vacancies were already scrutinized by JAC and many positions are vacant due to a governor's hiring freeze rather than being open for long periods.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because they believe it weakens the bill by removing protections that limit state liability, based on their experience with similar legislation.

The lawmaker supports the bill because it appropriates $70,000 and takes effect immediately to begin reviewing state prison facilities.

The lawmaker opposes the amendment because it restores a reduction made by the governor and urges keeping that decision.

The lawmaker opposes joining a coalition for a multi-party claims database because the cost was deemed too high during interim review.

The lawmaker supports the bill because it creates a federal funds holding account to ensure money is only spent through legislative appropriation, providing better tracking and control over federal monies.

The lawmaker explains that the bill aims to ensure at-will employment contracts are not created without legislative authorization or governor approval, and requires continued appropriation requests for such positions.