Committee rejects request to add an additional bill‑drafting attorney to Legislative Services Office

The Joint Finance‑Appropriations Committee on Wednesday voted down a motion to provide one additional bill‑drafting attorney for the Legislative Services Office (LSO) and an associated $128,500 in FY2026 funding.

Representative Tanner moved for the addition, saying LSO staff reported backlogs and that one additional drafter would reduce delays in drafting and processing legislation. Supporters argued the request would address workload spikes and prevent staff from working excessive hours during the session.

Opponents — including Senators and Representatives who said they favored restraint on bill filings or wanted the Legislature to limit how many bills individual members file — said adding staff for a momentary workload spike would not be appropriate while other agencies and programs faced cuts. Several members said they were uncomfortable adding staff beyond the agency request.

Outcome and procedure

The motion to add 1 FTE and $128,500 failed on a tied recorded vote in the committee panels (total recorded vote: 10 yes, 10 no). Members discussed the rising number of bills and amendments the LSO must process but ultimately the committee did not approve the position.

Speakers quoted

Representative Tanner, who moved the request, said LSO staff had told him they were “1 person short” to manage the drafting workload. LSO Director Terry Condiff said the office drafts legislation year‑round and fields requests across the state, noting the office had become busier in recent years.

Ending note

Because the motion failed, the LSO will continue to operate with its current staff levels. Committee members said they may consider alternative approaches to workload or legislative restraint rather than expand the drafting staff at this time.