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Subcommittee hears agency plans to meet 5% reduction target; lawmakers warn of programmatic tradeoffs
Summary
Seven natural‑resource agencies presented 5% expenditure‑reduction options to the Natural Resources Subcommittee. Lawmakers repeatedly warned that cuts to monitoring, facilitation and pass‑through grants could reduce data, hinder permitting, increase litigation and harm rural communities.
On Nov. 18 the Natural Resources Subcommittee heard seven agencies present options to achieve 5% expenditure reductions aimed at balancing the state's budget for the 2027 biennium. Agency directors and staff outlined criteria they used—prioritizing filled positions, using one‑time funds and vacancy savings first, and protecting federally matched programs—while lawmakers pressed for details on downstream impacts.
Key themes and agency highlights
- Department of Forestry: Kate Skinner described tradeoffs that included using one‑time detection camera funding and other sources to offset cuts. Lawmakers voiced strong opposition to reducing pass‑through insurance or PFA‑linked funds, warning it could jeopardize the Habitat Conservation Plan process.
- Water Resources Department: Director Ivan Gall and legislative coordinator Brynn Hudson emphasized protecting staff while reducing services and…
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