House panel hears proposal to send state funds straight to counties; DOLA and municipal groups oppose sweeping transfers

Representative Sukhla presented a bill that would alter how certain state-designated funds are distributed by sending money directly to counties using a split formula: 50% by county population and 50% equally to all 64 counties (with tribal governments included in the bill’s design as testified). The sponsor framed the change as a way to “cut out the middleman” and get funds on the ground faster for local needs such as public safety and housing.

Proponents said the current competitive grant and administrative structure leaves many rural communities without timely access to funds. Shaq Powers, who testified in support, argued that multiple competitive programs created by recent voter-approved initiatives and implementing legislation have…