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Senate resolution urges personal computers at senators' desks to cut paper use
Summary
Senator Millie Peterson introduced SR4 urging personal computers at senators' desks to save paper and improve access to bills; a two-year rollout was estimated at about $120,000 and the resolution was placed on the third-reading calendar.
Senator Millie Peterson presented Senate Resolution 4 on Feb. 10, urging placement of personal computers at senators' desks to reduce the large volume of paper produced during sessions and to provide faster access to bills and databases.
Peterson described the proposal as an "environmental bill," noting the increased number of bills and attendant paperwork. Leadership had already requested a study of desk computers and an initial cost estimate provided to senators was about $120,000 to equip the chamber over two years (approximately $60,000 per year to equip half the desks each year).
The resolution was reported out of committee with a favorable recommendation and placed on the third-reading calendar after a recorded tally. Supporters argued the change would improve efficiency and reduce paper consumption in the legislature. No appropriation was attached to the resolution in the floor discussion; the figure cited was an initial estimate rather than a formal budget request.
What happens next: SR4 will be considered on third reading; any procurement or appropriation to buy equipment would follow separate budgetary steps if leadership pursues the idea.
