The Senate Appropriations Committee for the Human Resources Division convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss the budget for the Department of Health and Human Services. The meeting began with a review of the general fund, which totals $403,484,000, reflecting an increase of $7.5 million from the previous budget cycle.

A significant focus of the discussion was on carryover funds. Committee members expressed the need for a closer examination of these funds, prompting a request for clarification from the fiscal department. Donna Auckland, the Chief Financial Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services, provided insights into the carryover requests, noting that there are 12 requests primarily related to large IT projects that extend beyond a single biennium for completion. Auckland offered to detail these requests further but suggested postponing the discussion to allow for the completion of other agenda items.

The meeting also highlighted the budget request for salaries and benefits, which includes ongoing compensation requirements for current staff. An additional $1.7 million is earmarked in the executive budget recommendation for state employee compensation, which includes a proposed $250 monthly increase for health insurance.

As the meeting progressed, the committee members acknowledged the importance of these budgetary considerations and the implications for state employees and ongoing projects. The session concluded with a commitment to follow up on the carryover funds via email, ensuring that all members have access to the necessary details for future discussions.