Ranking minority members of standing legislative committees allowed to request fiscal notes.
Impact
If enacted, HF3281 would modify the existing procedures regarding the preparation and distribution of fiscal notes within Minnesota's legislative framework. It will specifically amend section 3.98 of the Minnesota Statutes, which governs fiscal notes and their preparation. The inclusion of minority members in the request process for fiscal notes will likely influence how financial implications are articulated, thereby promoting a more inclusive legislative environment.
Summary
House File 3281 (HF3281) seeks to amend Minnesota Statutes to allow ranking minority members of standing legislative committees to request fiscal notes. Fiscal notes are essential documents that provide a financial analysis of the implications of proposed bills on the state's budget. By granting this power to minority members, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the legislative process, ensuring that all voices in committee discussions have the opportunity to understand the financial consequences of proposed legislation.
Contention
There are potential points of contention surrounding HF3281 that may emerge during discussions among legislators. Supporters may argue that this bill will strengthen minority representation and ensure that fiscal implications of legislation are thoroughly examined from multiple perspectives. However, opponents might express concerns regarding the administrative burden this could place on state agencies responsible for preparing these fiscal notes or question the overall impact it will have on the speed of the legislative process.
Adopting permanent rules for the House of Representatives, further providing for definitions, for order of business, for fiscal notes, for consideration of bills, for third consideration and final passage bills, for House and concurrent resolutions, for standing committees and subcommittees, for powers and duties of standing committees and subcommittees, for public hearings, for discharge of committees, for lay on the table and for previous question.