Archived Story

A look at first pieces of GOP budget plans
Posted on March 5
By The Associated Press

A glance at two of the six Republican budget bills that were debated in a hearing Monday:

- The GOP plan shaves the governor's plans for the Department of Commerce by $11.6 million, a big sticking point between the political parties.

- The governor's request for the Department of Public Health and Human Services is reduced $21 million, including a rejection of his plans for more methamphetamine and prisoner treatment.

- Spending at the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is reduced $10.4 million from what was requested by Gov. Brian Schweitzer. It includes money for about 4 new positions, as opposed to the roughly 20 new positions originally sought.

- The Department of Environmental Quality request is cut $20.4 million, including fewer employees for enforcement and reviewing permits.

- The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation request is reduced $1.3 million, and includes less money for new positions.

- The Department of Livestock budget is increased $200,000 over the governor's request, including money for public health testing and the Board of Horse Racing.

- Department of Agriculture funding would be increased $243,000, including more money for pesticide assistance.
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