TL/DR –
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has released his supplemental budget recommendations, focusing on expenditures that he considers “important, necessary and of immediate value”. His requests include increasing various Medicaid reimbursement rates, additional funding for the state’s property tax refund program, more money for litigating against federal regulations, and replenishing firefighting funds depleted by a historic fire year. In his budget letter, Gordon emphasized that the state’s expenditures should address immediate response and recovery needs but also reflect a long-term commitment to building resilience for the future, including disasters, without exceeding the state’s income.
Governor Mark Gordon’s Supplemental Budget Proposal
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has announced his supplemental budget recommendations, focusing on expenditure areas he termed as “important, necessary, and of immediate value.” These areas include increased Medicaid reimbursement rates, additional funds for the state’s property tax refund program, more funds for litigation against federal regulations, and replenishing firefighting funds depleted by a historic fire year.
The governor’s recommendations, however, are not final, as lawmakers ultimately decide the state’s budget. The 2024 budget session was contentious and the budget bill narrowly passed in the Senate. Despite the chaotic negotiations, Gordon approved most of the bill.
Supplemental Budget Highlights
In the proposed budget, the governor voiced his approval for the final product. He highlighted that the budget, despite the drama, is well done, as it only envisions an additional $6.5 million in ongoing expenditures, mainly due to inflation. The one-time requests total $220 million.
The budget also sets the state up well for the reduction of federal funding mechanisms, including the American Rescue Plan Act, Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Fight Against Federal Overreach
The Governor seeks funding for two senior attorney positions and $7.5 million for the Coal Litigation Funds to protect Wyoming’s natural resources from federal overreach. He is also asking for $5.2 million for the final phase of the Wyoming Innovation Partnership to build workforce resilience and boost the state’s economy.
Healthcare and Property Tax Relief
Gordon has also prioritized obstetrics services, in light of a significant shortage in Wyoming. He requested about $2.4 million to be added to the Department of Health’s budget. The governor has also sought to increase the rates for behavioral health providers and in-home health providers.
Focusing on tax relief, after lawmakers expanded the state’s property tax refund program, he asked for $10.5 million to be added to the program. The governor’s office will present these recommendations to the Joint Appropriations Committee on Dec. 9.
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