Republican legislative leadership has called for the Legislature to begin a special session one minute after the regular session ends June 1st to address 41 items dealing with the budget and other fiscal matters pushed by business lobbyists. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the additional time may give them a clearer picture of the state’s finances.
“They have no idea what the eventual revenues will be or what the eventual deficits will be,” said Pinsonat.
The special session could run the entirety of June, as lawmakers have until July 1st to pass a balanced budget.
While the agenda currently only pertains to fiscal items Pinsonat says it could be used as an opportunity to override a potential gubernatorial veto of items like tort reform aimed at lowering auto insurance rates.
“If he does then they can bring up the issue again possibly a compromise, and possibly not have compromise and they just try to override his veto,” said Pinsonat.
The Tort reform legislation has passed the Senate and is awaiting debate in the House. Another item that could be vetoed if passes is a bill blocking local governments from suing oil and gas companies for coastal damage.
The budget will be the focus but Pinsonat says because special sessions have no limitations on tax issues lawmakers will also consider some tax credits and exemptions.
“They are going to give business owners to have a chance to come and testify before these committees to talk about how bad their business has been devastated and what kind of help can the Legislature give them?” says Pinsonat.
The final step for fantasy sports legalization, taxation of the business, will also be considered.
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