Committee Summary for House Finance Division II (03/03/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:04:21.959 - 9:03:17 AM	General Working Session	Unclear

Unclear: Katherine Prenter, Chancellor of the University System of New Hampshire, and Lauren Banker, Government Relations Director Information Only00:04:21.959 - 9:03:17 AM; Katherine Prenter, the Chancellor of the University System of New Hampshire, and Lauren Banker, the Government Relations Director, presented information regarding the University System's budget, enrollment, and financial operations. They provided a summary of the governor's recommended budget, which includes a $16.5 million reduction in University System funding from 2024-2025 to 2026-2027, equating to an 8.3% reduction. They highlighted the University System's mission under RSA 187a, emphasizing its role in serving the state and nation through education and research. They discussed the financial impact of the budget cut, noting that they would need to remove about $20 million from their cost structure in fiscal year 2026. They also reviewed enrollment data, noting a total enrollment of 23,000 in the fall of 2024, and the significant role the University System plays in workforce development with approximately 3,000 graduates entering the New Hampshire workforce annually. They provided detailed financial data, comparing fiscal years 2019 and 2024, and explained the endowment's role in supporting scholarships and campus budgets. They offered to provide additional information upon request and answered questions from committee members regarding administrative salaries, compensation per student, and the use of endowment funds.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only00:17:00.480 - 9:15:56 AM; Representative Murray asked about the methodology used for determining the endowment payout, specifically questioning the use of rolling quarters and how market values influence the payout.
Unclear: Representative (unspecified) Information Only00:17:59.880 - 9:16:55 AM; An unnamed representative asked about the increase in administrative salaries over the period when the student population was declining, and requested a breakdown of employee compensation by grant-funded and non-grant-funded positions, as well as compensation per student.
Unclear: Representative Papovich Information Only00:19:11.960 - 9:18:07 AM; Representative Papovich requested detailed information on administrative compensation and headcount, with a breakdown between grant-related and non-grant-related positions. They also inquired about the use of funds from the New Hampshire unique college scholarship program, which contributes to the endowment and provides scholarships for needy students.
Unclear: Mr. Landan Information Only00:21:40.360 - 9:20:36 AM; Mr. Landan clarified the distribution of funds from the New Hampshire unique program, explaining that 30% of the revenue goes to endowments and 70% directly to scholarships for students across all higher education institutions in New Hampshire. He also discussed the endowment payout rate of 4.5% in the context of long-term investment returns and inflation.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 1 Information Only00:24:38.080 - 9:23:34 AM; The speaker requested statistics on payouts from similarly endowed schools, indicating a need for comparative data on university endowments. They expressed a preference for receiving this information directly from a reliable source.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 2 Information Only00:25:50.399 - 9:24:46 AM; The speaker discussed the importance of retaining New Hampshire students within the state, noting an increase in New Hampshire enrollment for the first time since 2013. They highlighted demographic challenges across New England, with fewer young people available, and the need to attract, equip, and retain students to meet future workforce demands. The speaker also emphasized the public mission of the university system as outlined in RSA 187a, and the necessity of education at various levels to support the state's workforce.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 3 Information Only00:27:13.919 - 9:26:09 AM; The speaker addressed the challenge of a decreasing student pipeline and its impact on the state's workforce. They mentioned the growth areas of life sciences and advanced manufacturing, and the university system's engagement with these sectors. They also discussed the need to reduce costs due to significant headwinds, while maintaining a strong balance sheet to continue investments that support the state's public mission and workforce needs.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 4 Information Only00:28:29.440 - 9:27:25 AM; The speaker provided examples of recent investments made by the university system with state support, including the Spalding Life Sciences building at UNH, Hyde Hall at Plymouth, and the Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center. They emphasized the importance of these investments for attracting students and fostering innovation in key industries.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 5 Information Only00:30:38.440 - 9:29:34 AM; The speaker discussed the ongoing construction of facilities for corporate partnerships in advanced manufacturing and NOAA research at UNH. They highlighted the significance of these projects for providing students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaborations with industry.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 6 Information Only00:32:04.000 - 9:31:00 AM; The speaker addressed the need to make difficult decisions regarding cost reduction due to declining enrollment, mentioning a required $20 million reduction in the cost structure for fiscal year 2026. They discussed potential strategies such as sharing academic programs across institutions and leveraging technology like AI for administrative efficiency.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 7 Information Only00:35:42.599 - 9:34:38 AM; The speaker elaborated on the university system's efforts to reduce its physical footprint due to fewer students, including selling and demolishing buildings and exiting leased spaces. They discussed the long-term planning required to align the physical infrastructure with changing academic programs.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 8 Information Only00:36:39.240 - 9:35:35 AM; The speaker responded to a query about specific manufacturers partnering with the university, citing Lonza and the collaboration in the Monadnock region on diamond turning and precision optics. They mentioned the establishment of a new manufacturing lab at Keene State College, supported by federal funds and local businesses, aimed at creating a pipeline into the industry.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 9 Information Only00:37:58.560 - 9:36:54 AM; The speaker discussed the university system's monitoring of recent federal actions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). They emphasized compliance with federal guidance and the impact of potential federal funding cuts on research and innovation. The speaker also outlined the university's approach to DEI, clarifying the scope of services provided under this umbrella and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 10 Information Only00:43:04.760 - 9:42:00 AM; The speaker responded to a question about the role of the Chief Diversity Officer at UNH, explaining the officer's oversight of various programs including compliance with Title IX, ADA, and employment law, as well as services for students with disabilities. They clarified that the university does not have programs based on race and ensures all programs are available to all students.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 11 Information Only00:45:18.440 - 9:44:14 AM; The speaker discussed the role of the chief diversity officer at the university, emphasizing that their portfolio includes more than just diversity programming. It includes support for students with disabilities, veterans, and various student affinity groups which are open to everyone. They clarified that underrepresented student populations, such as students of color and LGBT students, are supported once admitted, but belonging to such a group does not influence admission decisions at the university. The university has more capacity than necessary, and admission is based on meeting educational requirements.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 12 Information Only00:48:22.960 - 9:47:18 AM; The speaker addressed questions about the role of the chief diversity officer concerning university staff. They confirmed that the officer's responsibilities extend to staff, particularly in cases involving bias or harassment investigations. However, they emphasized that employees are not hired based on their membership in underrepresented groups. The speaker also mentioned the university's recent transition to a new HR and finance system, which no longer includes mandatory diversity statements in job postings.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 13 Information Only00:50:57.040 - 9:49:53 AM; The speaker responded to queries about whether new employees at the university are required to agree with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles. They clarified that such a requirement does not exist at the university. Under the old system, job applicants were asked to complete a diversity statement, but this is no longer the case with the new HR system implemented in December.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 14 Information Only00:51:46.160 - 9:50:42 AM; The speaker addressed whether diversity-related questions are still asked during the hiring process. They noted that while it's possible for a hiring manager to ask about inclusion, it is not a standard practice and would be documented if it occurred. They committed to updating the committee if any information changes.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 15 Information Only00:53:02.240 - 9:51:58 AM; The speaker provided information on enrollment trends, noting that graduate enrollment across the system has remained stable. They explained that while there has been an increase at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), Plymouth State University intentionally reduced its graduate programs due to financial considerations.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 16 Information Only00:54:14.440 - 9:53:10 AM; The speaker expressed concerns about potential federal grant funding cuts, specifically mentioning a potential cap on indirect costs from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). They reported that the university system estimated a potential loss of about one million dollars from NIH funding if such a cap were implemented.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 17 Information Only00:55:28.440 - 9:54:24 AM; The speaker discussed the university's relationship with NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), noting that no significant funding pullbacks have been communicated as of March 3rd. They highlighted UNH's role as a world leader in ocean mapping and its ongoing partnership with NOAA.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 18 Information Only00:56:58.640 - 9:55:54 AM; The speaker emphasized the importance of the university's mission in meeting the future needs of New Hampshire's workforce, economy, and quality of life. They requested that the governor's recommended funding level of an 8% reduction for the university system not be reduced further. They also mentioned providing additional material electronically for the committee's reference.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 19 Information Only00:58:09.200 - 9:57:05 AM; The speaker discussed the anticipated budget for 2025, mentioning a figure of 95 million dollars. They expressed a desire for the state to support this amount in the next biennium, indicating that it is already appropriated and they hope for flat funding in the future.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 20 Information Only00:59:19.039 - 9:58:15 AM; The speaker expressed a desire to see flat funding continue for university funding, indicating a preference for maintaining current financial support levels without increases. They acknowledged the efforts to keep tuition flat but raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of this policy, suggesting it might eventually lead to tuition becoming too close to free, which could pose financial challenges. They also mentioned the importance of the university's endowment growth, advocating for a balanced approach between growing the endowment and serving current students' needs, cautioning against over-accumulation of funds similar to some private institutions.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 21 Information Only01:00:12.960 - 9:59:08 AM; This speaker requested more detailed budget information from the university, specifically asking for breakdowns by department and historical data on state support and contracts over the past five years. They expressed a need for clarity in financial reporting, suggesting a format that is more detailed than a one-page summary but less complex than the state's full budget document. They also wanted to understand the university's financial strategy better, including administrative salaries and endowment payout rates.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 22 Information Only01:03:28.559 - 10:02:24 AM; The speaker summarized the requests made by the committee, confirming that they would provide detailed breakdowns of administrative salaries over a five-year period, differentiated by grant versus non-grant funding, and per student compensation. They also agreed to benchmark endowment payout rates against peer institutions, check with general counsel on grant-related activities, and ensure no discriminatory hiring practices are in place. They extended the request for state support data to six years to align with the biennium cycle.
Unclear: Mark Rubenstein, Chancellor of the Community College System Information Only01:05:52.920 - 10:04:48 AM; Chancellor Rubenstein, along with Shannon Reed, Director of Government Affairs and Communications for the Community College System, presented on the system's finances. They highlighted the governor's budget proposal, which was favorable despite state fiscal challenges, and clarified misunderstandings in the media about budget increases. They noted the inclusion of specific funding in House Bill 2 for workforce, early college, and the promise program, which is now fully integrated into House Bill 1's budget proposal. They also discussed a $1.25 million annual allocation for tuition assistance for early childhood education students, aimed at filling gaps in existing grant programs and preventing students from incurring debt.
Unclear: Shannon Reed, Director of Government Affairs and Communications for the Community College System Information Only01:06:57.599 - 10:05:53 AM; Shannon Reed discussed the financial aspects of the Community College System, particularly focusing on the governor's budget and the system's requests. They mentioned a $700,000 appropriation for relocating a welding program and the lack of funding for other requested capital projects, which would impact the operating budget. They provided insights into the system's focus on health care and transfer programs, as well as the impact of state investments on keeping tuition flat. Reed also highlighted the growth in non-credit training programs funded by state investments and the use of federal funds during the pandemic to offset lost revenue and enhance online learning capabilities.
Unclear: Scott Fields, Chief Operating Officer for the Community College System Information Only01:23:08.920 - 10:22:04 AM; Scott Fields provided clarification on financial terms and data presented during the session. He explained the composition of 'other operating revenue,' which includes smaller revenue streams like bookstore commissions and interest revenue. He addressed questions about financial projections for upcoming years, stating that they are in the process of developing these forecasts. Fields also discussed the system's approach to budgeting, including the impact of state funding on their operations and the need to align revenue projections with state budget finalization deadlines.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 23 Information Only01:33:47.199 - 10:32:43 AM; The speaker expressed frustration over the low salaries in fields like early childhood education and nursing, despite the training provided by the community college system. They highlighted the disconnect between training individuals for these roles and the societal undervaluation reflected in their wages, emphasizing the need for advocacy to improve compensation in these essential sectors.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker 24 Information Only01:34:54.360 - 10:33:50 AM; The speaker inquired about the status of House Bill 2's dual and concurrent enrollment program, referencing House Bill 193's passage in the House. They questioned whether the language could be removed from House Bill 2, considering the separate legislative progress of House Bill 193. There was discussion about keeping the language in multiple places until the legislative process concludes, to ensure it makes it over the finish line.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:16:44.840 - 12:15:40 PM; The speaker opened the Finance Division 2 meeting and introduced the discussion on the Fish and Game Fund. They explained that Mr. Landran had sent a note about the Fish and Game Fund surplus statement, which was provided to the committee on the 18th. The document is a snapshot of the fund's status, showing the governor's recommended budget in shaded columns and the current state in unshaded columns. The speaker highlighted differences such as a $200,000 increase in House Ways and Means revenue estimates for FY 2025 and a $397,000 transfer from the surplus that occurred post-budget preparation. They mentioned that Fish and Game operates by drawing from their surplus to spend, which is appropriated annually in HB1, and they can request additional funds from their surplus if needed.
Unclear: Stephanie Simmi, Director of New Hampshire Fish and Game Information Only03:20:46.279 - 12:19:42 PM; Stephanie Simmi introduced herself as the proud director of New Hampshire Fish and Game and was accompanied by Kathy Leonte, the chief of business operations and fiscal officer. They presented a slide deck to address previous committee questions and provide an overview of the agency's mission and operations. Simmi detailed the agency's role in conserving fish, wildlife, and marine resources, managing 124 Wildlife Management Areas, and maintaining various facilities. She highlighted the agency's budget, noting that most programs and positions remained unchanged, but the environmental review program is proposed to be moved to the Department of Environmental Services. She also mentioned the lack of general fund allocations for the conservation law enforcement program and anticipated using lapses in the unrestricted Fish and Game fund to close budget gaps.
Unclear: Kathy Leonte, Chief of Business Operations and Fiscal Officer, New Hampshire Fish and Game Information Only03:26:01.279 - 12:24:57 PM; Kathy Leonte discussed the financial aspects of the Fish and Game Department, focusing on the unrestricted and restricted revenues. She explained that restricted revenues are dedicated to specific programs and remain healthy, while the unrestricted revenues face challenges. She provided detailed information on the various revenue categories within the unrestricted fund, the dedicated accounts, and the lifetime license account. Leonte also addressed questions about license fee trends, historical general fund transfers, the impact of pay raises, and the department's personnel status. She highlighted the importance of transparency in fund management and the operational challenges due to budget constraints.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:38:20.840 - 12:37:16 PM; The speaker asked about the composition of unrestricted funds, specifically which license fees contribute to it. They clarified that about 35% of the unrestricted funds come from license fees, while the rest is from various other sources. They also inquired about the last time license fees were increased, to which it was confirmed that it occurred in 2018 with a $10 increase for certain types of licenses.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:40:56.520 - 12:39:52 PM; The speaker guided the discussion to the budget section starting on page 734 of the governor's physical budget, correcting that it actually starts at the end of page 733. They walked through each accounting unit, beginning with the non-game support unit, which is funded by a general fund match of $100,000 for the non-game dedicated account. They discussed the Fish and Game Commission's expenses, the Office of the Director's budget, and the gifts and donations account. Questions were raised about budget increases, land acquisitions, and specific expenditures like transfers to OIT, with detailed explanations provided on each.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:52:13.920 - 12:51:09 PM; The speaker continued the budget walkthrough, discussing the Wildlife Legacy Initiative and the Wildlife Heritage Foundation. They explained that the Wildlife Legacy Initiative funds are used to support the landowner relations program, and the Wildlife Heritage Foundation is a nonprofit partner that raises money for department projects. They also covered the administrative support division, highlighting key budget items like indirect costs, debt service, and retirement benefits for retirees, noting significant increases in some line items due to factors beyond their control.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:56:37.479 - 12:55:33 PM; The speaker discussed the budget constraints and future projections regarding the S cap, Debt Service, and retirees' health insurance. These figures are provided by other state agencies, and the department has no control over them. The speaker highlighted the need for more background information on why these costs are expected to grow, mentioning factors like the number of retirees, health insurance costs, and pension benefits contributions. They emphasized the importance of understanding the drivers behind these increases to better plan for future budgets.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:57:46.880 - 12:56:42 PM; The speaker continued to express concerns about the projected increases in costs, specifically questioning whether these increases are due to a higher number of retirees, increased health insurance costs, or higher pension contributions. They stressed the need for a clearer understanding of these factors to better manage future budgets, acknowledging the complexity and the necessity of looking beyond just the next budget cycle.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:58:57.080 - 12:57:53 PM; The speaker discussed the impact of an aging workforce on the agency, mentioning the anticipation of many retirements in the coming years. They noted the need for a detailed assessment of future staffing needs and expressed a commitment to addressing this issue, despite not having had the time to do so yet.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:00:56.920 - 12:59:52 PM; The speaker mentioned the upcoming online registration program for off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRVs), set to launch in September. They highlighted that the program would increase costs significantly, as it is more expensive to run online than manually. They clarified that the budget increase is to account for these costs, particularly in class 20 current expenses.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:01:43.960 - 1:00:39 PM; The speaker explained that the online OHRV registration program would result in a loss of income for the department due to the costs associated with running it. They mentioned that a significant portion of registration funds is transferred to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), leaving less for the department to cover the costs of running the program, including education and enforcement.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:03:07.319 - 1:02:03 PM; The speaker discussed the reasons for the increased costs of the online OHRV program, noting that it is more expensive to run than a manual program. They addressed the misconception that the online program would attract more out-of-state users, clarifying that this was not the department's argument. They expressed hope that promoting the program with the tourism bureau might increase user groups.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:05:01.080 - 1:03:57 PM; The speaker clarified that the online OHRV program would not result in a significant increase in out-of-state registrations, contrary to previous expectations. They discussed the upfront costs and the potential need for additional customer service staff due to increased online transactions. They compared the costs to the existing online hunting and fishing license program, noting the differences in operational expenses.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:06:05.000 - 1:05:01 PM; The speaker explained the historical process of purchasing hunting and fishing licenses, which used to be done through a manual form and license agents. They discussed the transition to an online platform and the increased need for customer service support due to this change. They clarified the differences between the old and new systems.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:19:56.560 - 1:18:52 PM; The speaker discussed the fees and distribution of OHRV registration funds, explaining that a significant portion goes to DNCR for trail maintenance and grants. They clarified the fee structure and the role of the online vendor in retaining a portion of the fees. They also addressed questions about the potential impact of changing the fee structure to benefit the department financially.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:21:16.960 - 1:20:12 PM; The speaker explained that the online OHRV registration program would allow the department to retain $4 of the transaction fee, which could help offset the costs of running the program internally. They discussed the potential benefits of the program once the initial costs are covered, assuming no additional staff is needed for customer support.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:23:26.319 - 1:22:22 PM; The speaker clarified that OHRV registration decals cannot be printed online like hunting and fishing licenses due to law enforcement concerns. They explained that decals can be obtained immediately from an agent but not online. They also discussed the complexities of the funding streams and the need for a detailed breakdown of fees and their distribution.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:30:01.159 - 1:28:57 PM; The speaker discussed the challenges of managing restricted and unrestricted funds, expressing a desire to increase fees on certain licenses and permits to address funding shortages. They highlighted the need for legislative changes to allow more flexibility in using these funds and suggested working together to find solutions.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:33:18.958 - 1:32:14 PM; The speaker emphasized the importance of adjusting fees to account for inflation and suggested looking at which restricted revenues could be made unrestricted. They discussed the potential for increasing fees on services to generate more unrestricted funds for the department, expressing a willingness to collaborate on finding solutions.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:36:22.879 - 1:35:18 PM; The speaker discussed the success of the hike safe card program, which has brought in significant revenue for search and rescue. They clarified where the funds are allocated in the budget and addressed questions about the use of these funds, ensuring they are dedicated to search and rescue activities.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:39:24.199 - 1:38:20 PM; The speaker provided an overview of the department's budget, discussing various accounting units and their funding sources. They highlighted the challenges of managing dedicated funds and the need for more flexible use of these funds to address departmental needs.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:48:51.320 - 1:47:47 PM; The speaker discussed the budget for the Inland Fisheries division, focusing on the underfunding of hatchery infrastructure. They explained the need for more funds to address maintenance issues and the potential for future improvements through new, innovative hatchery methods.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:54:33.440 - 1:53:29 PM; The speaker discussed the challenges of maintaining old fish hatcheries and the costs associated with them. They highlighted the department's efforts to transition to more efficient systems and the potential for reducing the number of hatcheries while maintaining production levels.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:55:35.360 - 1:54:31 PM; The speaker explained the new innovative hatchery project in New Hampton, which will use recycled water and modern methods to improve efficiency. They discussed the timeline for the project and its potential to serve as a pilot for the United States.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:57:44.878 - 1:56:40 PM; The speaker discussed the discontinuation of the broodstock Atlantic salmon program due to its lack of cost-effectiveness. They also mentioned the fish food vending machine revenue, which is a dedicated fund for purchasing hatchery equipment, and questioned its necessity given the small amount of revenue it generates.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:00:17.040 - 1:59:13 PM; The speaker provided an overview of the law enforcement division's budget, discussing the transfer of funds to DNCR for OHRV-related activities. They also mentioned the search and rescue budget and the hike safe card's role in funding these activities.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:03:44.320 - 2:02:40 PM; The speaker discussed the marine fisheries management and the Great Bay National Estuary Research Reserve (GBNERR) program, explaining its federal funding and its role in research and education. They also mentioned the salt marsh monitoring and restoration program and the coastal cleanup fund, both funded by federal grants and specific fees.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:07:29.280 - 2:06:25 PM; The speaker provided an update on the marine fisheries division project, noting that it is a large and beautiful project with no funds allocated in fiscal year 27 as it is scheduled for completion. They also discussed the facilities and lands division, mentioning the public boat access program and facility maintenance, funded mostly by fishing and game funds with some federal funds.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:08:51.878 - 2:07:47 PM; The speaker continued discussing the budget, focusing on the facilities and lands division. They mentioned the public boat access program funded by the $5 boat registration fee and federal funds, and the facility maintenance unit, which includes six full-time staff and is mostly funded by fishing and game funds. They also addressed unemployment and workers' compensation, noting that the agency is self-funded.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:09:54.558 - 2:08:50 PM; The speaker responded to questions about the budget, particularly the zeroing out of general funds in the law enforcement unit due to the governor's phase. They explained that this resulted in an increase in fishing and game funds, and discussed the potential impact on law enforcement staffing and operations, including the need for general funds to fill vacancies.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:10:43.440 - 2:09:39 PM; The speaker elaborated on the impact of the governor's budget cuts on law enforcement, noting that without the general funds, they would not be able to fill five vacancies, which are critical for the state's law enforcement needs. They highlighted the strain on officers due to continuous work without adequate rest, leading to increased overtime and potential for workers' compensation claims.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:11:41.480 - 2:10:37 PM; The speaker discussed the potential impact of the governor's initiative to streamline permitting on their agency. They expressed support for the initiative but raised concerns about the loss of positions, which could limit their capacity to conduct environmental reviews for various entities. They suggested retaining at least one or two positions to maintain their agency's capabilities.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:12:38.440 - 2:11:34 PM; The speaker continued discussing the impact of the governor's initiative, emphasizing the need for their agency to retain some capacity to conduct environmental reviews. They expressed concerns about redundancy and increased litigation risks if their agency's roles were completely transferred to another agency.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:13:49.120 - 2:12:45 PM; The speaker clarified that the positions in question have not been eliminated but are currently vacant. They are in discussions about whether to fill these positions, which depends on the availability of general funds. They emphasized the need for these positions to meet their agency's mandates.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:14:51.680 - 2:13:47 PM; The speaker confirmed that if the governor's initiative were to proceed as written, their agency would lose the capacity to conduct necessary environmental reviews, which could lead to unfulfilled mandates and potential litigation issues.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:15:20.040 - 2:14:16 PM; The speaker responded to a question about the direct and indirect costs of search and rescue operations, stating that a report on this matter is being generated but was not available at the time. They expressed willingness to work on a more detailed analysis to better account for all costs.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:16:24.920 - 2:15:20 PM; The speaker discussed the ongoing efforts to break down internal data to better understand the true cost of search and rescue operations to the fish and game department. They mentioned their availability to help design a different format for presenting the data post-budget completion.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:18:22.480 - 2:17:18 PM; The speaker provided further details on the budget cuts and their impact on law enforcement, clarifying that while the general funds were removed, the fishing and game funds were increased. They discussed the potential implications for staffing and operations, emphasizing the need for general funds to maintain current staffing levels.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:22:10.520 - 2:21:06 PM; The speaker addressed concerns about federal funds, noting that one grant is on hold, which may require the agency to cover previously expended funds. They mentioned a potential increase in excise taxes on online purchases that could benefit federal grants, and provided an overview of their federal funding situation.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:23:37.360 - 2:22:33 PM; The speaker discussed the potential re-contracting with the producers of 'North Woods Law,' noting a shift towards short YouTube clips rather than a TV show. They mentioned that any revenue from ads would be donated to the Heritage Foundation, and they are in discussions with the AG's office about the appropriateness of such arrangements.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only05:26:04.160 - 2:25:00 PM; The speaker concluded the meeting by discussing their retirement plans, expressing a commitment to stay with the agency for a few more years. They also briefly touched on their long tenure with the state, including time at the Department of Environmental Services.