The 2010 legislative session, scheduled to end on Wednesday, June 2, 2010 appears to be heading into extra innings as the Governor and the Legislature struggle to find a solution to the estimated $295 million deficit for SFY 2010/2011. The House and Senate have been working for weeks on possible solutions to the deficit, including further budget cuts and additional revenue. The focus of their work over the last 10 days has been HB 1128. However on June 1, 2010, the Conference Committee on HB 1128 indicated that it was not able to reach agreement because of a fundamental disagreement between the House and Senate over gambling – the Senate supports and the House opposes using revenues from expanded gambling to close the budget gap. 

It appears likely that the Governor will call the Legislature back for a Special Session as early as next week. If the Legislature fails to act, the Governor and executive branch agencies will be forced to make additional deep cuts to the budget (including to funds for alcohol and other drug prevention and treatment services and programs) because the executive branch does not have the authority to raise revenue.  

We highlight the following and will post a final tracking document on the New Futures website as soon as the session concludes. 

HB 410 permits appropriately qualified masters prepared licensed alcohol and drug counselors to provide treatment to individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. HB 410 has passed both the House and Senate and is on its way to the Governor for his signature. There is no doubt that the strong voices of advocates, including family members of people seeking treatment, providers, and DHHS, made the difference on this bill. Congratulations to those who have been working tirelessly on this issue for the last three years – WELL DONE.

SB 181 relates to the proposed transfer of the Bureau of Liquor Enforcement and Licensing to the Department of Safety. On June 2, 2010, we hope that the House and Senate will approve the conference committee report on SB 181 which suspends the transfer until July 1, 2011 and creates yet another study committee to examine the possible transfer. New Futures will continue its advocacy on behalf of retaining the Bureau within the Liquor Commission.