Natural resources subcommittee hears LFO orientation; members warned of fee shortfalls, wildfire and housing pressures

The Joint Ways and Means Natural Resources Subcommittee held an informational orientation on Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, where Legislative Fiscal Office staff explained the budget process and warned that fee revenue shortfalls, wildfire response costs and housing‑related permitting demands will be major issues for the 2025 session.

The presentation, given by April McDonald of the Legislative Fiscal Office, walked committee members through the state’s budget structure, LFO responsibilities and common issues across the natural‑resources program area. LFO staff told the subcommittee that natural‑resources agencies together account for a small share of total state spending but rely heavily on other funds and fees that are under pressure.

April McDonald, subcommittee coordinator at the Legislative Fiscal Office, said, "LFO is a permanent, nonpartisan, independent legislative service agency. Our mission is to promote fiscal accountability," and described LFO’s role in analyzing…