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House approves bill requiring contingency plans from local governments that rely heavily on federal funds
Summary
HB205 requires political subdivisions that receive 10% or more of their annual budget from federal funds to develop and publish contingency plans submitted to the state auditor; debate focused on local-control concerns and the auditor's role as repository; bill passed 52-21.
Representative Handy presented House Bill 205, which would require any political subdivision that receives 10 percent or more of its annual budget from federal funds to develop and publish a contingency plan and submit it to the state auditor. Handy described the measure as a "nudge" to promote unified preparation for potential federal funding reductions and said the plan should explain how the subdivision receives federal dollars and how it would respond if funding declines by thresholds specified in the bill.
Several members raised concerns about state intrusion into local affairs. Representative Paulson and Representative Nielsen argued local governments may already plan responsibly and emphasized the principle that "the government closest to the people serves the people best." Representative Hemingway asked what the auditor would do with submitted plans; Handy said the state auditor would act as a repository and the plans would be posted on the political subdivision's website, if available.
After discussion and a short summation from the sponsor, the House voted on final passage. The bill passed 52-21 and will be transmitted to the Senate for consideration.
