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H.766

Introduced by             Committee on Appropriations

Date:

Subject:     Omnibus appropriations act

Statement of purpose:  This bill proposes to make appropriations in support of government for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2002.

AN ACT MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE SUPPORT OF GOVERNMENT

It is hereby enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Vermont:

Sec. 1.  SHORT TITLE

(a)  This bill may be referred to as the BIG BILL - Fiscal Year 2003 Appropriations Act.

Sec. 2.  PURPOSE

(a)  The purpose of this act is to provide appropriations for the operations of state government during fiscal year 2003.  It is the express intent of the legislature that activities of the various agencies, departments, divisions, boards, and commissions be limited to those which can be supported by funds appropriated in this act or other acts passed prior to June 30, 2002.  Agency and department heads are directed to implement staffing and service levels at the beginning of fiscal year 2003 so as to meet this condition unless otherwise directed by specific language in this act.

Sec. 3.  APPROPRIATIONS

(a)  The sums herein stated are appropriated for the purposes specified in the following sections of this act.  When no time is expressly stated during which any of the appropriations are to continue, the appropriations are declared to be single-year appropriations, and only for the purpose indicated.  These appropriations shall be the only appropriations available, notwithstanding any other acts or laws.  If, in this act, there is an error in either addition or subtraction, the totals shall be adjusted accordingly.  Apparent errors in referring to section numbers of statutory titles within this act may be disregarded by the commissioner of finance and management.

Sec. 4.  TIME AVAILABLE

(a)  The sums appropriated in this act, unless otherwise designated, shall be available only during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2003.  The balance of any appropriations made in this act remaining unexpended and unencumbered at the end of the fiscal year shall revert to the appropriate fund balance unless otherwise specified in this act.  Refunds of expenditures and reimbursements, except liability insurance premiums, which have been paid from the appropriations of a prior year, shall be credited to the appropriate fund and not to appropriation accounts in the current fiscal year, unless those refunds or reimbursements were previously paid from federal grants-in-aid or from appropriations whose unexpended balances are reappropriated by law.  Refunds of liability insurance premiums paid in prior fiscal years are hereby available to reduce subsequent liability insurance premiums.  Nothing contained in this act shall limit the time within which an appropriation to be raised by the issue of bonds may be expended.

Sec. 5.  DEFINITIONS

(a)  For the purposes of this act:

(1)  “Encumbrances” means a portion of an appropriation reserved for the subsequent payment of existing purchase orders or contracts.  The commissioner of finance and management shall make final decisions on the appropriateness of encumbrances.

(2)  “Grants” means subsidies, aid or payments to local governments, to community and quasi-public agencies for providing local services, and to persons who are not wards of the state for services or supplies, and cash or other direct assistance, including pension contributions.

(3)  “Operating expenses” means supplies - food, medical, clothing, educational, fuel, highway materials and similar items; contractual services - postage, telephone, travel expenses, light, heat and power, rentals, insurance and other similar items; equipment articles of substantial value which have a long period of usefulness -  desks, computers, typewriters, furniture, motor vehicles and similar items; expenditures for the purchase of land, construction of new buildings and permanent improvements, highway construction and similar items.

(4)  “Personal services” means wages and salaries, consulting services, personnel benefits, personal injury benefits under section 636 of Title 21 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated and similar items.

Sec. 6.  SOURCE OF FUNDS

(a)  The appropriations made in this act are made for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2003 except as provided in this act, and are to be paid from funds shown as the source of funds.

Sec. 7.  Secretary of administration - secretary’s office

                    Personal services     709,040

                    Operating expenses     60,603

                        Total     769,643

               Source of funds

                    General fund     412,988

                    Transportation fund     61,875

                    Interdepartmental transfer     294,780

                         Total     769,643

Sec. 8.  ANTI-TERRORISM AND BIO-TERRORISM CONTROL

             FEDERAL GRANTS

(a)  To effectively manage federal funds received to support state and local anti-terrorism and bio-terrorism control efforts, the secretary of administration is directed to:

(1)  Utilize the funds in accordance with budget allocations contained in this bill for the department of buildings and general services, the criminal justice training council, and the fire service training council.

(2)  any remaining expenditures of said funds shall be in accordance with a plan submitted to the legislature or, if the legislature is not in session, the joint fiscal committee at a regularly scheduled meeting.  Said committee shall consider the plan and take action to approve, disapprove or modify the proposed spending.

Sec. 9.  Secretary of administration - GOVnet

                    Personal services     383,058

                    Operating expenses     1,356,092

                        Total     1,739,150

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     1,739,150

Sec. 10.  Finance and management - financial operations

                    Personal services     1,280,477

                    Operating expenses     988,363

                        Total     2,268,840

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     2,268,840

Sec. 11.  Finance and management - budget and management

                    Personal services     751,832

                    Operating expenses     96,072

                        Total     847,904

               Source of funds

                    General fund     612,323

                    Transportation fund     132,511

                    Interdepartmental transfer     103,070

                        Total     847,904

Sec. 12.  Finance and management - education and functional support

                    Personal services     229,688

                    Operating expenses     39,102

                        Total     268,790

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     268,790

Sec. 13.  Personnel - operations

                    Personal services     2,028,869

                    Operating expenses     566,810

                        Total     2,595,679

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,291,651

                    Transportation fund     521,530

                    Special funds  48,000

                    Internal service funds     696,994

                    Interdepartmental transfer     37,504

                        Total     2,595,679

Sec. 14.  Personnel - recruitment services

                    Personal services     384,553

                    Operating expenses     217,528

                        Total     602,081

               Source of funds

                    General fund     300,564

                    Transportation fund     126,517

                    Special funds  175,000

                        Total     602,081

Sec. 15.  Personnel - employee benefits

                    Personal services     1,336,550

                    Operating expenses     354,497

                        Total     1,691,047

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     1,691,047

Sec. 16.  Libraries

                    Personal services     1,567,987

                    Operating expenses     1,391,996

                    Grants     404,920

                        Total     3,364,903

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,128,869

                    Special funds  50,300

                    Federal funds     1,049,734

                    Interdepartmental transfer     136,000

                        Total     3,364,903

Sec. 17.  Libraries - special services: handicapped

                    Personal services     186,703

                    Operating expenses     25,813

                        Total     212,516

               Source of funds

                    General fund     88,292

                    Special funds  1,000

                    Federal funds  123,224

                        Total     212,516

Sec. 18.  Tax - administration/collection

                    Personal services     8,827,300

                    Operating expenses     2,346,705

                        Total     11,174,005

               Source of funds

                    General fund     10,386,283

                    Transportation fund     263,785

                    Special funds  350,937

                    Tobacco fund   58,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     115,000

                        Total     11,174,005

Sec. 19.  Tax - revenue and returns processing

                    Personal services     967,801

                    Operating expenses     314,285

                        Total     1,282,086

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,282,086

Sec. 20.  Buildings and general services - administration

                    Personal services     1,038,711

                    Operating expenses     164,439

                        Total     1,203,150

               Source of funds

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,203,150

Sec. 21.  Buildings and general services - engineering

                    Personal services     1,620,002

                    Operating expenses     328,780

                        Total     1,948,782

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,650,528

                    Transportation fund     233,254

                    Interdepartmental transfer     65,000

                        Total     1,948,782

Sec. 22.  Buildings and general services - information centers

                    Personal services     2,630,396

                    Operating expenses     845,097

                    Grants     255,000

                        Total     3,730,493

               Source of funds

                    General fund     397,769

                    Transportation fund     3,332,724

                        Total     3,730,493

Sec. 23.  Buildings and general services - purchasing

                    Personal services     775,375

                    Operating expenses     272,359

                        Total     1,047,734

               Source of funds

                    General fund     787,670

                    Transportation fund     260,064

                        Total     1,047,734

Sec. 24.  Buildings and general services - public records

                    Personal services     784,046

                    Operating expenses     379,452

                        Total     1,163,498

               Source of funds

                    General fund     905,296

                    Transportation fund     87,992

                    Special funds  170,210

                        Total     1,163,498

Sec. 25.  Buildings and general services - postal

                    Personal services     600,979

                    Operating expenses     342,729

                        Total     943,708

               Source of funds

                    General fund     108,082

                    Transportation fund     65,291

                    Internal service funds     770,335

                        Total     943,708

Sec. 26.  Buildings and general services - copy center

                    Personal services     697,657

                    Operating expenses     840,052

                        Total     1,537,709

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     1,537,709

Sec. 27.  Buildings and general services - supply center

                    Personal services     241,252

                    Operating expenses     232,618

                        Total     473,870

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     473,870

Sec. 28.  Buildings and general services - federal surplus property

                    Personal services     53,755

                    Operating expenses     106,878

                        Total     160,633

               Source of funds

                    Enterprise funds  160,633

Sec. 29.  Buildings and general services - state surplus property

                    Personal services     49,272

                    Operating expenses     56,884

                        Total     106,156

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     106,156

Sec. 30.  Buildings and general services - property management

                    Personal services     773,378

                    Operating expenses     3,145,884

                        Total     3,919,262

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     3,919,262

Sec. 31.  Buildings and general services - all other insurance

                    Personal services     49,578

                    Operating expenses     26,077

                        Total     75,655

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     75,655

Sec. 32.  Buildings and general services - general liability insurance

                    Personal services     312,382

                    Operating expenses     494,929

                        Total     807,311

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     807,311

Sec. 33.  Buildings and general services - workers’ compensation insurance

                    Personal services     862,592

                    Operating expenses     288,743

                        Total     1,151,335

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     1,151,335

     (a)  The establishment of one (1) new classified position - Loss Prevention Coordinator - is authorized in fiscal year 2003.  This position shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

Sec. 34.  Buildings and general services - communications & information technology

                    Personal services     2,560,881

                    Operating expenses     3,604,266

                         Total     6,165,147

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     6,165,147

Sec. 35.  Buildings and general services - fee for space

                    Personal services     5,635,591

                    Operating expenses     8,545,828

                        Total     14,181,419

               Source of funds

                    General fund     573,016

                    Special funds  250,000

                    Federal fund     439,016

                    Internal service funds     12,919,387

                        Total     14,181,419

     (a)  The establishment of two (2) new classified positions - one (1) Maintenance Mechanic II, and one (1) Plant Maintenance Supervisor A - is authorized in fiscal year 2003.  These positions shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

     (b)  Of the above special fund appropriation, $250,000.00 is from the petroleum violation escrow fund, and shall be used for eligible energy efficiency programs in state buildings.

(c)  The amount of $439,016.00 of the above federal fund appropriation shall be for the cost of nine (9) security‑related positions necessary for statewide anti-terrorism and emergency preparedness in the wake of September 11, 2001.  The secretary of administration shall work to ensure that this program preparedness becomes a priority for federal grant funding the state receives, including Patriot Act funds or other federal anti-terrorism, bio-hazard and emergency preparedness‑related funding.

(d)  Notwithstanding any other provision of law, during fiscal year 2003, $689,016.00 of the charges billed to departments and agencies of state government in the fee for space program shall be deposited in the general fund.

Sec. 36.  Sec. 14 of No. 63 of the Acts of 2001 is amended to read:

Sec. 14.  Buildings and general services - facilities operations

                    Personal services     5,799,014     5,799,014

                    Operating expenses     6,566,915     6,347,326

                        Total     12,365,929     12,146,340

               Source of funds

                    General fund     10,260,631     10,041,042

                    Transportation fund     1,805,298     1,805,298

                    Interdepartmental transfer     300,000     300,000

                        Total     12,365,929     12,146,340

* * *

(b)  The establishment of nine (9) new classified positions - one (1) BGS Security Supervisor, and eight (8) BGS Security Worker - is authorized in fiscal year 2002.  These positions shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.  These positions will be filled only when the commissioner determines that federal funds are available to cover the cost of these positions.

Sec. 37.  Geographic information system

                    Grants     376,992

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  376,992

Sec. 38.  Auditor of accounts

                    Personal services     1,504,309

                    Operating expenses     109,150

                        Total     1,613,459

               Source of funds

                    General fund     475,151

                    Transportation fund     70,368

                    Special funds  52,167

                    Internal service funds     1,015,773

                         Total     1,613,459

Sec. 39.  State treasurer

                    Personal services     2,176,246

                    Operating expenses     316,520

                        Total     2,492,766

               Source of funds

                    General fund     617,438

                    Transportation fund     123,714

                    Special funds     1,166,413

                    Pension trust funds  545,000

                    Private purpose trust funds  40,201

                        Total     2,492,766

     (a)  The conversion of one (1) limited service position - Accountant B - to permanent is authorized in fiscal year 2003.

Sec. 40.  State treasurer - abandoned property

                    Personal services     70,373

                    Operating expenses     95,183

                        Total     165,556

               Source of funds

                    Private purpose trust funds  165,556

Sec. 41.  Vermont state retirement system

                    Personal services     14,541,400

                    Operating expenses     146,039

                        Total     14,687,439

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     14,687,439

Sec. 42.  Municipal employees’ retirement system

                    Personal services     1,002,100

                    Operating expenses     46,826

                        Total     1,048,926

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     1,048,926

Sec. 43.  State labor relations board

                    Personal services     148,509

                    Operating expenses     34,906

                        Total     183,415

               Source of funds

                    General fund     172,185

                    Transportation fund   5,528

                    Special funds  5,702

                        Total     183,415

Sec. 44.  Executive office

                    Personal services     1,048,906

                    Operating expenses     296,097

                    Grants     51,978

                        Total     1,396,981

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,097,120

                    Transportation fund     187,676

                    Special funds  3,185

                    Interdepartmental transfer     109,000

                        Total     1,396,981

Sec. 45.  Executive office - national and community service

                    Personal services     153,402

                    Operating expenses     95,219

                    Grants     1,428,643

                        Total     1,677,264

               Source of funds

                    General fund     60,803

                    Federal funds     1,616,461

                        Total     1,677,264

Sec. 46.  Executive office - governor’s commission on women

                    Personal services     124,166

                    Operating expenses     65,514

                    Total       189,680

               Source of funds

                    General fund     184,680

                    Special funds  5,000

                        Total     189,680

Sec. 47.  VOSHA review board

                    Personal services     29,184

                    Operating expenses 9,180

                        Total     38,364

               Source of funds

                    General fund     18,988

                    Federal funds  19,376

                        Total     38,364

Sec. 48.  Property tax assistance

                    Grants     92,250,523

               Source of funds

                    General fund     8,405,436

                    Transportation fund     3,842,637

                    Education fund     80,002,450

                        Total     92,250,523

Sec. 49.  Use tax reimbursement fund - municipal current use

                    Grants     5,100,000

               Source of funds

                    General fund     3,029,610

                    Transportation fund     2,070,390

                        Total     5,100,000

Sec. 50.  Lieutenant governor

                    Personal services     102,844

                    Operating expenses     13,881

                        Total     116,725

               Source of funds

                    General fund     94,114

                    Transportation fund     22,611

                        Total     116,725

Sec. 51.  Legislature

                    Personal services     2,591,215

                    Operating expenses     2,096,950

                        Total     4,688,165

               Source of funds

                    General fund     3,828,478

                    Transportation fund     859,687

                        Total     4,688,165

     (a)  No funds appropriated by this section may be expended for the Vermont general assembly’s participation in or support of the Northeast Legislative Association on Prescription Drug Pricing, unless contributions of no less than $25,000.00 have been made by all of the other state legislative members of the association.  In addition, so long as the offices of the association are located in the state of Vermont, the association shall reimburse the state for the costs of providing office space and office expenses.

Sec. 52.  Legislative council

                    Personal services     1,651,561

                    Operating expenses     92,090

                        Total     1,743,651

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,465,527

                    Transportation fund     278,124

                        Total     1,743,651

Sec. 53.  Sergeant at arms

                    Personal services     309,512

                    Operating expenses     51,388

                        Total     360,900

               Source of funds

                    General fund     312,207

                    Transportation fund     48,693

                        Total     360,900

Sec. 54.  Joint fiscal committee

                    Personal services     794,642

                    Operating expenses     66,184

                        Total     860,826

               Source of funds

                    General fund     699,276

                    Transportation fund     161,550

                        Total     860,826

Sec. 55.  Lottery commission

                    Personal services     1,127,907

                    Operating expenses     693,556

                        Total     1,821,463

               Source of funds

                    Enterprise funds     1,821,463

Sec. 56.  Payments in lieu of taxes

                    Grants     1,850,000

               Source of funds

                    General fund     700,000

                    Special funds     1,150,000

                        Total     1,850,000

     (a)  The above appropriation is for state payments in lieu of property taxes under subchapter 4 of chapter 123 of Title 32, and the payments shall be calculated in addition to, and without regard to, the appropriations for PILOT for Montpelier and correctional facilities elsewhere in this act.

     (b)  The secretary of administration shall anticipate receipts in the PILOT special fund to ensure the total appropriation is available.

Sec. 57.  Payments in lieu of taxes - Montpelier

                    Grants     184,000

               Source of funds

                    General fund     184,000

Sec. 58.  Payments in lieu of taxes - correctional facilities

                    Grants     40,000

               Source of funds

                    General fund     40,000

Sec. 59.  Total general government     198,319,601

               Source of funds

                    General fund     42,310,430

                    Transportation fund     12,756,521

                    Education fund     80,002,450

                    Special funds     19,541,271

                    Tobacco fund   58,000

                    Federal funds     3,247,811

                    Enterprise funds     1,982,096

                    Internal service funds     35,606,761

                    Pension trust funds  545,000

                    Private purpose trust funds  205,757

                    Interdepartmental transfer     2,063,504

                        Total     198,319,601

Sec. 60.  Protection to persons and property - Attorney general

                    Personal services     4,344,999

                    Operating expenses     860,860

                        Total     5,205,859

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,317,943

                    Transportation fund     83,495

                    Special funds  811,978

                    Tobacco fund   290,000

                    Federal funds  486,443

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,216,000

                        Total     5,205,859

Sec. 61.  Attorney general - telemarketing fraud

                    Personal services     111,628

                    Operating expenses     38,372

                        Total      150,000

               Source of funds

                    Federal funds  150,000

Sec. 62.  Vermont court diversion

                    Grants     1,104,555

               Source of funds

                    General fund     615,531

                    Transportation fund     177,804

                    Special funds  311,220

                        Total     1,104,555

Sec. 63.  Center for crime victims services

                    Personal services     723,250

                    Operating expenses     208,018

                    Grants     4,270,070

                        Total     5,201,338

               Source of funds

                    General fund     736,179

                    Special funds  724,808

                    Federal funds     3,740,351

                        Total     5,201,338

Sec. 64.  Center for crime victims services - victim compensation

                    Grants     575,000

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  405,000

                    Federal funds  170,000

                        Total     575,000

Sec. 65.  State’s attorneys

                    Personal services     6,826,326

                    Operating expenses     990,905

                        Total     7,817,231

               Source of funds

                    General fund     5,866,162

                    Transportation fund     447,230

                    Special funds  43,500

                    Federal funds  5,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,455,339

                        Total     7,817,231

     (a)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $25,000.00 shall be used to support a temporary deputy state’s attorney position in Addison County.

Sec. 66.  Sheriffs

                    Personal services     1,075,541

                    Operating expenses     36,941

                        Total     1,112,482

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,075,541

                    Transportation fund     36,941

                        Total     1,112,482

     (a)  Of the above appropriation, $15,000.00 shall be transferred to the state’s attorneys office as reimbursement for the cost of the executive director’s salary.

Sec. 67.  Sheriffs - transport

                    Personal services     1,196,821

                    Operating expenses     200,000

                        Total     1,396,821

               Source of funds

                    General fund     749,687

                    Transportation fund     647,134

                        Total     1,396,821

     (a)  The general assembly finds that the increasing cost of prisoner transports from correctional centers to courts is placing a burden on the ability of the state to pay for such transports.  The general assembly is concerned with preserving the due process rights of prisoners granted by the U.S. Constitution and the Vermont Constitution, yet it believes some court hearings can be held without the presence of a prisoner in the courtroom without any infringement upon the prisoner’s constitutional rights.  Some hearings, such as status conferences, could be held without the participation of the prisoner; while others may be held with prisoner participation by telephone or video conference.  It is the intent of the general assembly to preserve due process rights of prisoners while addressing the increased cost of detaining prisoners in the correctional centers while they wait for disposition of their cases.  Accordingly, the general assembly hereby directs the department of state’s attorneys and sheriffs, the administrative judge for trial courts, the court administrator, the defender general and the commissioner of the department of corrections to work together to reduce the number of unnecessary prisoner transports to court hearings, taking into account the findings and intent of the general assembly, as stated in this subsection.  The parties shall report to the chairs of the house and senate committees on appropriations and on judiciary by January 15, 2003, regarding the steps that have been taken and the impact those steps have had on reducing transports.

Sec. 68.  Defender general - public defense

                    Personal services     4,741,141

                    Operating expenses     506,962

                        Total     5,248,103

               Source of funds

                    General fund     4,226,254

                    Transportation fund     630,058

                    Special funds  346,791

                    Interdepartmental transfer     45,000

                        Total     5,248,103

Sec. 69.  Defender general - assigned counsel

                    Personal services     2,093,790

                    Operating expenses     46,505

                        Total     2,140,295

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,880,285

                    Transportation fund     260,010

                        Total     2,140,295

Sec. 70.  Defender general - ad hoc counsel

                    Personal services     127,403

               Source of funds

                    General fund     127,403

Sec. 71.  Military - administration

                    Personal services     397,864

                    Operating expenses     274,406

                    Grants     158,000

                        Total     830,270

               Source of funds

                    General fund     830,270

     (a)  Of the above appropriation, $200,000.00 shall be transferred to the Vermont student assistance corporation for the national guard scholarship program, which is comprised of $158,000.00 of the above appropriation and $42,000.00 in fiscal year 2002 carry-forward funds.

     (b)  Total grants under 16 V.S.A. chapter 87, subchapter 4A shall not exceed $200,000.00 in fiscal year 2003, nor shall commitments or obligations be made for expenditure amounts over $200,000.00 in fiscal year 2004.

Sec. 72.  Military - air service contract

                    Personal services     3,176,327

                    Operating expenses     904,423

                        Total     4,080,750

               Source of funds

                    General fund     333,042

                    Federal funds     3,747,708

                        Total     4,080,750

Sec. 73.  Military - army service contract

                    Personal services     2,269,299

                    Operating expenses     8,183,223

                        Total     10,452,522

               Source of funds

                    General fund     145,134

                    Federal funds     10,307,388

                        Total     10,452,522

Sec. 74.  Military - building maintenance

                    Personal services     829,020

                    Operating expenses     478,932

                        Total     1,307,952

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,272,952

                    Special funds  35,000

                        Total     1,307,952

Sec. 75.  Military - veterans’ affairs

                    Personal services     130,991

                    Operating expenses     21,265

                    Grants     125,850

                        Total     278,106

               Source of funds

                    General fund     278,106

     (a)  Of the above appropriation, $7,500.00 is to be expended for a Vietnam memorial plaque, $5,000.00 for the Brattleboro marching band, $15,000.00 for the Vermont veterans’ day parade, $10,000.00 for the veterans’ park in Essex Junction and $10,000.00 for the U.S.S. Montpelier.

Sec. 76.  Labor and industry

                    Personal services     5,019,899

                    Operating expenses     1,320,000

                    Grants     70,000

                        Total     6,409,899

               Source of funds

                    General fund     788,013

                    Special funds     4,520,271

                    Federal funds     1,051,596

                    Interdepartmental transfer     50,019

                        Total     6,409,899

     (a)  The establishment of one (1) new classified position - Occupational Health Compliance Specialist - is authorized in fiscal year 2003.  This position shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

Sec. 77.  Labor and industry - wage and hour

                    Personal services     106,058

                    Operating expenses     33,000

                        Total     139,058

               Source of funds

                    General fund     139,058

Sec. 78.  Criminal justice training council

                    Personal services     704,932

                    Operating expenses     718,787

                        Total     1,423,719

               Source of funds

                    General fund     469,083

                    Transportation fund     348,154

                    Federal funds  50,000

                    Special funds  453,448

                    Interdepartmental transfer     103,034

                        Total     1,423,719

     (a)  The amount of $50,000.00 federal PATRIOT or bio-terrorism funds are appropriated for the criminal justice training council.

Sec. 79.  Criminal justice training council - domestic violence

                    Personal services     13,478

                    Operating expenses 3,488

                        Total     16,966

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  3,488

                    Interdepartmental transfer     13,478

                        Total     16,966

Sec. 80.  Liquor control - enforcement and licensing

                    Personal services     1,393,102

                    Operating expenses     312,679

                        Total     1,705,781

               Source of funds

                    Tobacco fund   318,973

                    Enterprise funds     1,386,808

                        Total     1,705,781

Sec. 81.  Liquor control - administration

                    Personal services     1,094,958

                    Operating expenses     423,232

                        Total     1,518,190

               Source of funds

                    Enterprise funds     1,518,190

Sec. 82.  Liquor control - warehousing and distribution

                    Personal services     555,248

                    Operating expenses     392,575

                        Total     947,823

               Source of funds

                    Enterprise funds  947,823

Sec. 83.  Vermont racing commission

                    Operating expenses 1

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1

Sec. 84.  Secretary of state

                    Personal services     2,538,026

                    Operating expenses     1,102,897

                        Total     3,640,923

               Source of funds

                    General fund     453,646

                    Special funds     3,057,277

                    Interdepartmental transfer     130,000

                        Total     3,640,923

     (a)  The establishment of two (2) new classified positions - one (1) Clerk C and one (1) Licensing Board Inspector - is authorized in fiscal year 2003.  These positions shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

     (b)  Of the above appropriation, $15,000.00 shall be used to assist towns in making their polling places handicap accessible in accordance with ADA guidelines.  Of these funds, up to $5,000.00 each shall be granted to the towns of Waterville and Woodbury for this purpose.

Sec. 85.  MIDDLETOWN SPRINGS; TOWN LINES; ACQUIESCENCE

               BOUNDARY

     (a)  Notwithstanding the survey of the Middletown Springs town line (ALX Project No. 020.01), any prior legislative grant, or any town charter line to the contrary, the town boundary lines of the Town of Middletown Springs with the adjoining Towns of Poultney, Wells, Ira and Tinmouth shall remain as established by acquiescence of the towns on this date until such time as the general assembly may make adjustments.

Sec. 86.  Secretary of state - corporations

                    Personal services     304,380

                    Operating expenses     100,000

                        Total     404,380

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  404,380

     (a)  The above appropriation shall be from the securities and regulation and supervision fund in accordance with 9 V.S.A. § 4230(b).

Sec. 87.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - banking

                    Personal services     1,029,981

                    Operating expenses     280,050

                        Total     1,310,031

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     1,310,031

     (a)  Notwithstanding 9 V.S.A. § 4230(b), in fiscal year 2003, the commissioner of banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration may transfer up to $200,000.00 from the securities regulation and supervision fund to the banking supervision fund established in 8 V.S.A. § 19(f).

Sec. 88.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - insurance

                    Personal services     2,338,230

                    Operating expenses     465,206

                        Total     2,803,436

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     2,803,436

Sec. 89.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - captive

                    Personal services     1,394,280

                    Operating expenses     295,498

                        Total     1,689,778

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     1,689,778

Sec. 90.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - administration

                    Personal services     708,586

                    Operating expenses     55,252

                        Total     763,838

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  763,838

Sec. 91.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - securities

                    Personal services     486,869

                    Operating expenses     136,650

                        Total     623,519

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  623,519

Sec. 92.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - health care administration

                    Personal services     2,632,646

                    Operating expenses     387,166

                        Total     3,019,812

               Source of funds

                    General fund     535,304

                    Special funds     2,484,508

                        Total     3,019,812

Sec. 93.  Banking, insurance, securities, and health care administration - insurance agent licensing

                    Personal services     302,214

                    Operating expenses     132,091

                        Total     434,305

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  434,305

Sec. 94.  Public safety - state police

                    Personal services     31,309,941

                    Operating expenses     6,107,908

                    Grants     2,093,465

                        Total     39,511,314

               Source of funds

                    General fund     14,193,733

                    Transportation fund     17,287,645

                    Special funds     2,661,652

                    Federal funds     4,190,709

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,177,575

                        Total     39,511,314

     (a)  The department of public safety shall provide business manager services for the Vermont criminal justice training council and for the Vermont fire service training council.

     (b)  Of the above transportation fund appropriation, $35,000.00 shall be available for snowmobile law enforcement activities, and $35,000.00 shall be available for the statewide snowmobile wilderness search and rescue team, is comprised of state police, department of fish and wildlife county sheriffs and local law enforcement personnel in Bennington, Windham and Windsor counties, for snowmobile enforcement.

     (c)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $880,000.00 shall be used to purchase vehicles.  The commissioner shall make vehicle purchases, placing highest priority on the least‑cost vehicles that meet the specifications established by the department.

     (d)  The establishment of one (1) new classified positions and one (1) Terrorism Outreach Coordinator.  These positions shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

Sec. 95.  Public safety - criminal justice services

                    Personal services     4,259,969

                    Operating expenses     4,734,725

                    Grants     478,900

                        Total     9,473,594

               Source of funds

                    General fund     95,000

                    Transportation fund     3,630,878

                    Special funds  457,818

                    Federal funds     4,668,600

                    Interdepartmental transfer     621,298

                        Total     9,473,594

     (a)  The Vermont center for justice research is designated as the state’s instrumentality to receive statistical analysis center federal funds.

     (b)  The establishment of one (1) new classified position - Forensic Chemist III  - is authorized in fiscal year 2003.  This position shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

Sec. 96.  Public safety - emergency management

                    Personal services     1,022,640

                    Operating expenses     1,149,945

                    Grants     1,249,247

                        Total     3,421,832

               Source of funds

                    General fund     48,930

                    Transportation fund     63,969

                    Special funds  420,523

                    Federal funds     2,888,410

                        Total     3,421,832

Sec. 97.  Public safety - governor’s highway safety program

                    Personal services     855,084

                    Operating expenses     300,536

                    Grants     3,925,566

                        Total     5,081,186

               Source of funds

                    Transportation fund     172,828

                    Special funds  362,500

                    Federal funds     4,545,858

                        Total     5,081,186

Sec. 98.  Agriculture, food and markets - administration

                    Personal services     611,075

                    Operating expenses     298,093

                    Grants     778,334

                        Total     1,687,502

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,284,035

                    Special funds  13,722

                    Federal funds  254,211

                    Interdepartmental transfer     135,534

                        Total     1,687,502

Sec. 99.  Agriculture, food and markets - food safety and consumer assurance

                    Personal services     1,843,898

                    Operating expenses     275,293

                    Grants     1,492

                        Total     2,120,683

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,221,619

                    Transportation fund     45,824

                    Special funds  343,833

                    Federal funds  497,407

                    Interdepartmental transfer     12,000

                        Total     2,120,683

Sec. 100.  Agriculture, food and markets - agriculture development

                    Personal services     599,557

                    Operating expenses     234,805

                    Grants     225,842

                        Total     1,060,204

               Source of funds

                    General fund     564,214

                    Special funds  395,988

                    Interdepartmental transfer     100,002

                        Total     1,060,204

Sec. 101.  Agriculture, food and markets - plant industry, labs and consumer assurance

                    Personal services     1,871,045

                    Operating expenses     377,915

                        Total     2,248,960

               Source of funds

                    General fund     626,248

                    Special funds     1,081,387

                    Federal funds  333,765

                    Interdepartmental transfer     207,560

                        Total     2,248,960

Sec. 102.  Agriculture, food and markets - state stipend

                    Grants     163,500

               Source of funds

                    General fund     163,500

Sec. 103.  Agriculture, food and markets - mosquito control

                    Grants     90,000

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  90,000

Sec. 104.  Agriculture, food and markets - farm conservation

                    Personal services     35,775

                    Operating expenses     12,000

                        Total     47,775

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  47,775

Sec. 105.  Public service - regulation and energy

                    Personal services     3,937,560

                    Operating expenses     639,354

                    Grants     240,000

                        Total     4,816,914

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     4,080,912

                    Federal funds  711,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     25,002

                        Total     4,816,914

Sec. 106.  Public service - purchase and sale of power

                    Personal services   7,824

                    Operating expenses 365

                        Total  8,189

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  8,189

Sec. 107.  Public service - consumer affairs and public information

                    Personal services     252,431

                    Operating expenses     21,778

                        Total     274,209

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  274,209

Sec. 108.  Enhanced 9-1-1 Board

                    Personal services     1,955,669

                    Operating expenses     254,309

                         Total     2,209,978

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     2,209,978

Sec. 109.  Enhanced 9-1-1 Board - training

                    Personal services     180,390

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  180,390

     (a)  To replace on-going contractual services. The establishment of one (1) new classified position – State 9-1-1 Communications Coordinator - is authorized in fiscal year 2003.  This position shall be transferred and converted from existing vacant positions in the executive branch of state government.

Sec. 110.  Public service board

                    Personal services     2,193,063

                    Operating expenses     335,876

                        Total     2,528,939

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     2,528,939

Sec. 111.  Judiciary

                    Personal services     21,339,325

                    Operating expenses     4,975,084

                        Total     26,314,409

               Source of funds

                    General fund     19,881,952

                    Transportation fund     3,627,781

                    Special funds  441,676

                    Federal funds  172,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     2,191,000

                        Total     26,314,409

     (a)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $25,000.00 is for the court administrator for the purpose of providing enhanced security for the Franklin county superior court.

Sec. 112.  Human rights commission

                    Personal services     267,218

                    Operating expenses     96,363

                        Total     363,581

               Source of funds

                    General fund     262,095

                    Special funds  1

                    Federal funds  101,485

                        Total     363,581

Sec. 113.  Vermont radiological emergency response plan fund

                    Personal services     400,000

                    Operating expenses     400,000

                        Total     800,000

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  800,000

Sec. 114.  30 V.S.A. § 38 (a) is amended to read:

     (a)  There is created a radiological emergency response plan fund which shall include all moneys paid to the state pursuant to subdivision (5) of this subsection.  The fund shall be separately maintained and accounted for by the state treasurer and shall be administered by the department of finance and management and managed pursuant to the provisions of chapter 7, subchapter 5 of Title 32.  Expenditures shall be made from the fund for the purpose of providing the personnel, operating costs and equipment necessary to maintain the effectiveness of the Vermont radiological emergency response plan.  The Vermont radiological emergency response plan shall be based on annual performance criteria to be developed by the Vermont emergency management agency with the approval of the department of health, the select boards of the towns in the emergency planning zone, and the management of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant.

          (1)  Provided the expense is determined to be necessary by the emergency management division, the commissioner of finance and management may approve reimbursement from the fund to any municipality, county or state agency or any support organization for the proportion of emergency preparation costs directly related to the preparation for, testing or carrying out a radiological emergency response plan.  The fund may be used for personnel, operations or equipment which have the capability of responding to other in addition to radiological emergencies.  The fund shall be used to support the annual radiological emergency response plan criteria and the plan, in accord with an annual budget developed jointly by the Vermont emergency management agency and the department of health, and submitted no later than May 1 of each year to the management of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant for review and comment.  From the fund, each town within the emergency planning zone shall receive an annual base grant of no less than $5,000.00 to reimburse the town for radiological emergency response‑related expenditures.  Any town within the emergency planning zone may also apply for a grant from the fund for expenditures made by the town for this purpose in excess of $5,000.00 in any year.

          (2)  The commissioner of finance and management annually shall submit to the general assembly a report detailing expenditures from the fund.  The report shall include any comments submitted by any utility which has made payments into the fund and by any involved municipality, county or state agency.

(3)  Any utility making any payment into the radiological emergency response plan fund shall have the right to audit the books and records of the fund at any time.

(4)  Upon the termination of the Vermont radiological emergency response plan fund or the permanent cessation of operation of the reactor having caused the establishment of this fund and the removal of emergency response plan regulations applicable to it by the Federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission or any other federal agency having regulatory jurisdiction, and after all outstanding debts have been paid, all moneys remaining in the fund shall be promptly paid to the utility having made the payments.

          (5)  Each fiscal year:

               (A)  The commissioner of finance and management shall survey town and emergency support organizations eligible for reimbursement from the radiological emergency response plan fund to determine the amounts necessary for the purposes of this subsection.  Budget and grant requests from eligible towns shall be solicited by March 1 of each year and given priority in the development of the emergency radiological response plan budget.

               (B)  Any utility operating a nuclear reactor in this state shall pay to the state treasurer an amount equal to the amount required $800,000.00 to establish or maintain the Vermont radiological emergency response plan fund at the level of $400,000.00.

               (C)  The Vermont emergency management agency and the Vermont department of health shall submit monthly invoices for expenditures related to radiological emergency response planning.  The department of finance and management shall prepare financial statements reconciling all receipts and expenditures to the fund and provide monthly written reports to the select boards of the towns within the emergency planning zone and the management of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.

          (6)  Any moneys remaining in the radiological emergency response plan fund at the end of any fiscal year shall be carried forward for expenditures in the next fiscal year and any interest accrued on the moneys shall remain in the fund.

Sec. 115.  Fire service training council

                    Personal services     247,466

                    Operating expenses     231,543

                    Grants     20,000

                        Total     499,009

               Source of funds

                    General fund     251,588

                    Transportation fund     99,985

                    Special funds  100,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     47,436

                        Total     499,009

     (a)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $20,000.00 shall be allocated on a matching basis to allow rural communities to obtain defibrillators.  Priority payments shall be made to fire departments or rescue squads of rural communities with a population of 600 or less, who shall be entitled to an 80‑percent matching grant, if they produce 20 percent of the costs of a defibrillator.  If funds are available after making these 80‑percent matching grant payments, fire departments or rescue squads of rural communities with a population of more than 600, but less than 2,500, shall be entitled to a 50‑percent matching grant, if they produce 50 percent of the costs of a defibrillator.

Sec. 116.  Fire service training council - firefighter 1 training

                    Personal services     404,728

                    Operating expenses     318,209

                        Total     722,937

               Source of funds

                    General fund     50,000

                    Special funds  427,924

                    Federal funds  160,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     85,013

                        Total     722,937

     (a)  The amount of $50,000.00 federal PATRIOT or bio-terrorism funds is appropriated for the fire service training council.

Sec. 117.  Total protection to persons and property     177,505,251

               Source of funds

                    General fund     61,482,508

                    Transportation fund     27,559,736

                    Special funds     38,153,992

                    Tobacco fund   608,973

                    Federal funds     38,231,931

                    Enterprise funds     3,852,821

                    Interdepartmental transfer     7,615,290

                        Total     177,505,251

Sec. 118.  Human services - agency of human services - Secretary’s office

                    Personal services     3,358,275

                    Operating expenses     1,244,018

                    Grants     6,799,382

                        Total     11,401,675

               Source of funds

                    General fund     4,369,818

                    Special funds  100,000

                    Tobacco fund   125,000

                    Federal funds     6,360,857

                    Interdepartmental transfer     446,000

                        Total     11,401,675

     (a)  Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, workers employed by persons who receive assistance from the agency of human services to procure attendant, personal care, or respite services or who utilize a qualified intermediary service organization providing services on behalf of the state shall not be considered state employees except for purposes of 21 V.S.A. chapter 17.

     (b)  Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, the state may provide workers’ compensation coverage to workers employed by persons who receive assistance from the agency of human services to procure attendant, personal care, or respite services, and the state shall not be considered their employer.  The state may also either permit a qualified intermediary service organization to purchase group insurance policies for persons served by their organization, or deem such persons to be members of an association and eligible for self insurance under 21 V.S.A. § 687a for purposes of providing workers’ compensation.  This provision is intended solely to reduce costs of providing workers’ compensation and shall not be considered for any other purpose.

     (c)  The secretary shall report back to the house and senate committees on appropriations by January 15, 2003 with an analysis of the high risk pool and a progress report on efforts to address complex problems with an integrated approach through the use of policy clusters.

     (d)  Notwithstanding 32 V.S.A. § 706, the secretary may transfer funds allocated for the “high risk pool” to the departments in the agency through which services are being provided.

Sec. 119.  3 V.S.A. § 3026(a) is amended to read:

     (a)  The secretary of human services, the commissioner of education, and the president of the University of Vermont shall establish a research partnership to study and make recommendations for improving the effectiveness of state and local health, human services, and education programs.  Critical program outcomes relating to the well-being of Vermonters that should be addressed by the research partnership may include, without limitation, the following:

          (1)  Children, families and individuals are engaged in and contribute to their community’s decisions and activities.

          (2)  Pregnant woman and children thrive.

          (3)  Children are ready for school.

          (4)  Children succeed in school.

          (5)  Children live in stable, supported families.

          (6)  Youth choose healthy behaviors.

          (7)  Youth successfully transition to adulthood.

          (8)  Elders and people with disabilities live with dignity and independence in settings they prefer.

          (9)  Families and individuals live in safe and supportive communities.

          (10)  Adults lead healthy and productive lives.

Sec. 120.  Rate setting

                    Personal services     593,304

                    Operating expenses     62,176

                        Total     655,480

               Source of funds

                    Interdepartmental transfer     655,480

Sec. 121.  Human services board

                    Personal services     232,382

                    Operating expenses     19,092

                        Total     251,474

               Source of funds

                    General fund     98,500

                    Federal funds  114,706

                    Interdepartmental transfer     38,268

                        Total     251,474

Sec. 122.  Developmental disabilities council

                    Personal services     94,177

                    Operating expenses     37,011

                    Grants     271,905

                        Total     403,093

               Source of funds

                    Federal funds  403,093

Sec. 123.  Office of child support services

                    Personal services     6,619,561

                    Operating expenses     3,326,254

                        Total     9,945,815

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,144,105

                    Special funds  454,125

                    Federal  funds     8,240,485

                    Interdepartmental transfer     107,100

                        Total     9,945,815

Sec. 124.  Health - administration and support

                    Personal services     2,836,148

                    Operating expenses     923,333

                        Total     3,759,481

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,238,033

                    Special funds  76,751

                    Federal funds     2,439,697

                    Interdepartmental transfer     5,000

                        Total     3,759,481

Sec. 125.  Health - health protection

                    Personal services     2,950,855

                    Operating expenses     650,861

                    Grants     121,700

                        Total     3,723,416

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,397,068

                    Special funds  927,500

                    Federal funds     1,064,793

                    Interdepartmental transfer     334,055

                        Total     3,723,416

Sec. 126.  Health - health surveillance

                    Personal services     5,470,751

                    Operating expenses     1,795,124

                    Grants     2,520,800

                        Total     9,786,675

               Source of funds

                    General fund     3,805,245

                    Special funds     1,022,250

                    Federal funds     4,866,115

                    Permanent trust   10,000

                    Interdepartmental transfer     83,065

                        Total     9,786,675

     (a)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $300,000.00 shall be appropriated to the Vermont AIDS service organizations for client-based support services.  The grants in this section shall be awarded equitably, on a per‑client basis, and shall be used for services only, not administrative or other purposes.  The method by which AIDS service organizations’ clients are counted shall be determined by mutual agreement of the department of health, the AIDS service organizations, and the HIV/AIDS service advisory council (HASAC).

     (b)  Of the above federal fund appropriation, the Ryan White Title II federal service funds shall be used for direct client-based support services, including services that assist people living with HIV/AIDS to access medical care.  The department shall follow federal guidelines, and shall be advised by the HIV/AIDS service advisory council (HASAC) for the purpose of prioritization of the use of these funds.  Criteria shall be developed by the department, in collaboration with the HASAC, to govern situations when the department may select providers outside of the existing AIDS service organizations network to receive part of these Ryan White Title II funds.

Sec. 127.  HIV/AIDS MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

     (a)  Of the general fund appropriation in this act for Health - Health Surveillance, $175,000.00 shall be used for all aspects of the HIV/AIDS medication assistance program (AMAP), including the costs of prescribed medications, related laboratory testing, nutritional supplements and maximum cost‑effectiveness for the program.

     (b)  The secretary of human services shall immediately notify the joint fiscal committee if, at any time, there are insufficient funds in AMAP to assist all eligible individuals.  The secretary shall work in cooperation with the persons living with HIV/AIDS to develop a plan to continue access to AMAP medications until such time as the legislature can take action.

     (c)  The secretary of human services shall work in conjunction with the AMAP advisory committee, comprised of no less than 50 percent members who are living with HIV/AIDS.  The committee shall make recommendations regarding the program’s formulary of approved medication, related laboratory testing, nutritional supplements and eligibility for the program.

Sec. 128.  Health - health improvement

                    Personal services     6,466,272

                    Operating expenses     1,492,659

                    Grants     9,829,284

                        Total     17,788,215

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,728,181

                    Special funds  783,801

                    Tobacco fund     4,175,000

                    Federal funds     9,922,669

                    Interdepartmental transfer     178,564

                        Total     17,788,215

     (a)  The department of health may carry forward any unspent portion of funds designated for health professional loan repayment.  These funds may be used either alone or to match Federal National Health Service Corps loan repayment funds, local funds, or private funds, and shall be made available to primary care providers, dentists, and licensed nurses who agree to practice for a prescribed period of time in the state, serving a portion of the state designated as a health professional shortage population, or other rural or underserved areas.  Educational scholarships, loan repayment grants, loan deferment payments, and payments of taxes due on the award may be considered for payment.

     (b)  Of the above appropriation, $300,000.00 is to support the Vermont coalition of clinics for the uninsured health care and dental services provided by clinics for uninsured individuals and families.  The coalition shall report to the general assembly, on or before January 1 of each year, with a fiscal and program accounting of expenditures made with the monies appropriated by the general assembly.

     (c)  The above tobacco appropriation in this section shall be utilized according to the provisions of chapter 225 of Title 18, as follows:

          (1)  community-based activities - $1,100,000.00;

          (2)  countermarketing - $1,000,000.00;

          (3)  tobacco cessation programs - $1,275,000.00;

          (4)  statewide programs - $200,000.00; and

          (5)  fund surveillance and evaluation - $600,000.00.

Sec. 129.  18 V.S.A. § 10 is amended to read:

§ 10.  EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE; INCENTIVES; NURSES

     (a)  A Vermont resident enrolled in an accredited registered nursing or licensed practical nursing program in Vermont, is eligible for a loan of up to $6,000.00 per year provided:

(1)  graduation from the program will result in eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN nursing examination in the case of a registered nurse or the NCLEX-PN in the case of a licensed practical nurse; and

          (2)  the student is enrolled as a full time student in the program.

     (b)  The amount of up to $6,000.00 of a loan awarded under this section shall be cancelled and forgiven for each year the student is employed as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse in Vermont.  Eligibility for this program shall be determined by the health department, in consultation with schools, providers and the Area Health Education Center (AHEC).  The commissioner may require certification of compliance with this subsection prior to forgiving all or a portion of the loan.

     (c)  The commissioner shall award up to $6,000.00 per year for up to four years, to any licensed registered nurse or practical nurse who has outstanding educational loans and who has not received or is not eligible to receive loan forgiveness under subsection (b) of this section, for each year the nurse is employed as a registered or practical nurse.  Eligibility for this program shall be determined by the health department, in consultation with schools, providers and the AHEC.  The commissioner may require certification of compliance with this subsection prior to making an award.

     (d)  In any year in which the commissioner does not have sufficient funds to carry out the provisions of this section, the The commissioner shall use funds appropriated first to provide loans and loan forgiveness pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) of this section.  Remaining funds shall be used to provide awards pursuant to subsection (c) of this section, giving priority to those nurses serving in an undersupplied nursing specialty or in a geographic area of Vermont which is underserved.

     (e)  This program shall apply to registered nurses or licensed practical nurses who have graduated after April 1, 2001.

     (f)(e) This section shall be repealed effective June 30, 2005.

Sec. 130.  Health - community public health

                    Personal services     9,959,322

                    Operating expenses     1,522,480

                    Grants     12,428,236

                        Total     23,910,038

               Source of funds

                    General fund     4,570,113

                    Special funds  558,700

                    Federal funds     18,695,225

                    Interdepartmental transfer     86,000

                        Total     23,910,038

Sec. 131.  Health -  alcohol and drug abuse programs

                    Personal services     2,236,451

                    Operating expenses     480,942

                    Grants     10,591,762

                        Total     13,309,155

               Source of funds

                    General fund     3,590,413

                    Special funds  86,000

                    Tobacco fund     1,941,000

                    Federal funds     7,691,742

                        Total     13,309,155

     (a)  For the purpose of meeting the need for outpatient substance abuse services when the preferred provider system has a waiting list of five days or more, or there is a lack of qualified clinicians to provide services in a region of the state, a state-qualified alcohol and drug abuse counselor may apply to the department of health, division of alcohol and drug abuse programs, for time‑limited authorization to participate as a Medicaid provider to deliver clinical and case coordination services, as authorized.

     (b)  Of the above tobacco fund appropriation, $500,000.00 shall be granted for opiate treatment.

     (c)  Of the above appropriation, Maple Leaf Farm shall be reimbursed for Medicaid and uninsured (ADAP grant) at a combined rate of $157.00 per day for primary and residential care.

Sec. 132.  OPIATE ADDICTION TREATMENT

     (a)  Notwithstanding the provisions of 18 V.S.A. § 4702(b)(7), the commissioner of health may approve up to five opiate addiction treatment programs operated by, and located outside of, a hospital or medical school, after consideration of the space requirements and space availability at the hospital or medical school, provided that the program is located in a multi-use building, so that the purpose for which a person is entering or leaving the building is not obvious.  Programs approved by the commissioner shall be located in close proximity to other medical and social services, and shall not be geographically located in isolated community settings.

Sec. 133.  REIMBURSEMENT RATES FOR OPIATE ADDICTION

                 TREATMENT PROGRAMS

     (a)  The commissioner of health shall establish, after conducting negotiations with hospitals and medical schools, reimbursement rates that reflect the reasonable cost of authorized opiate addiction treatment programs.

Sec. 134.  Health - medical practice board

                    Personal services     481,742

                    Operating expenses     114,497

                        Total     596,239

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  596,239

Sec. 135.  Health - medical practice board - Vermont practitioner health program

                    Personal services     40,000

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  40,000

Sec. 136.  Social and rehabilitation services - administrative and support services

                    Personal services     1,925,058

                    Operating expenses     303,442

                        Total     2,228,500

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,015,032

                    Federal funds     1,213,468

                        Total     2,228,500

Sec. 137.  Social and rehabilitation services - social services

                    Personal services     15,552,390

                    Operating expenses     2,640,799

                    Grants     47,439,973

                        Total     65,633,162

               Source of funds

                    General fund     24,562,292

                    Special funds  962,450

                    Federal funds     40,108,420

                        Total     65,633,162

     (a)  Of the above appropriation, $681,580.00 shall be used to support runaway youth with crisis and family stabilization support services.  Funds in this section shall be provided to the Vermont coalition of runaway and homeless youth programs through a grant from the agency of human services for the purpose of reducing the rate of out of home placements by coordinating with DDMHS and SRS immediate response and family stabilization programs and other community‑based programs that maximize federal receipts, including the coordination of data collection and tracking outcomes for children, youth and families.

     (c)  Social and rehabilitation services will refer not less than 20 individual youth to Vermont’s federally‑funded Northland job corps center in Vergennes.  These youth will be between the ages of 16 and 24 who may have been adjudicated, who can respond to behavioral guidelines and who are motivated to become economically self‑sufficient through Northland job corps center’s vocational training programs.  The appropriation reflects the reduced cost resulting from placement of a minimum of 20 children in custody at the job corps in Vergennes in fiscal year 2003.  The department shall maintain a record of children in custody and on juvenile probation placed at the job corps in fiscal year 2003, and the results of such placement with a goal for the year of 20 children in custody.

Sec. 138.  Social and rehabilitation services - child care services

                    Personal services     1,711,859

                    Operating expenses     389,063

                    Grants     27,581,981

                        Total     29,682,903

               Source of funds

                    General fund     5,895,402

                    Transportation fund     75,000

                    Special funds  832,000

                    Federal funds     22,803,249

                    Interdepartmental transfer     77,252

                        Total     29,682,903

     (a)  The division of child care services shall not impose a cap on the number of subsidized child care scale slots without prior review of program utilization during the fiscal year 2003 budget adjustment process.

Sec. 139.  33 V.S.A. chapter 33, subchapter 4 is added to read:

Subchapter 4.  Child Care Facilities Financing

§ 3531.  THE CHILDREN FIRST FUND - CHILD CARE FACILITIES

              FINANCING PROGRAM

     (a)  A child care facilities financing program is established to facilitate the development and expansion of child care facilities in the state.  The program shall be administered by the department of social and rehabilitation services.

(b)  The program shall be supported from a special fund, to be known as the “Children First Fund”, hereby created for this purpose to be administered by the commissioner of social and rehabilitation services.  Subject to approvals required by 32 V.S.A § 5, the fund may accept gifts and donations from any source, and the commissioner may take appropriate actions to encourage contributions and designations to the account, including publicizing explanations of the purposes of the fund and the uses to which the Children First Fund has been or will be applied.

(c)  The commissioner shall award grants from the fund to eligible applicants for development and expansion of child care facilities in the state.  The commissioner shall establish by rule criteria, conditions and procedures for awarding such grants and administering this program.

Sec. 140.  TRANSFER; CHILDREN FIRST FUND

     (a)  In fiscal year 2003, there is transferred, on a one‑time basis, $100,000.00 from the TANF block grant to the child development block grant to be used to support the activities of the Children First Fund.  This transfer shall be in addition to any other funds appropriated by this act.

Sec. 141.  Notwithstanding Sec. 244a of Act No. 152 of 2000 and Sec. 12g of Act No. 155 of 2000, 23 V.S.A. § 304c is added to read:

§ 304c.  CHILDREN FIRST MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION PLATES

(a)  The commissioner shall, upon application, issue “children first” registration plates for use only on vehicles registered at the pleasure car rate and on trucks registered for not more than 8,099 pounds.  Plates so acquired shall be mounted on the front and rear of the vehicle.  The commissioner of motor vehicles shall utilize the graphic design recommended by the commissioner of social and rehabilitation services for the special plates to enhance the public awareness of the state’s interest in supporting children’s services.  Applicants shall apply on forms prescribed by the commissioner of motor vehicles, and shall pay an initial fee of $20.00 in addition to the annual fee for registration.  In following years, in addition to the annual registration fee, the holder of a “children first” plate shall pay a renewal fee of $20.00.  The commissioner shall adopt rules under 3 V.S.A. chapter 25 to implement the provisions of this subsection.

     (b)  Fees collected under subsection (a) of this section shall be allocated as follows:

          (1)  $5.00 to the transportation fund.

          (2)  $15.00 to the department of social and rehabilitation services for deposit in the Children First Fund created in Sec. 139 of this act.

     (c)  Renewal fees collected under subsection (a) of this section shall be allocated as follows:

(1)  $17.00 to the department of social and rehabilitation services for deposit in the Children First Fund created in Sec.139 of this act.

(2)  $3.00 to the transportation fund.

     (d)  The department of motor vehicles shall not be charged by the department of corrections for the development and production of the children first license plates.

     (e)  The children first motor vehicle registration plates shall be available to the public on October 1, 2002.

Sec. 142.  Social and rehabilitation services - Woodside rehabilitation center

                    Personal services     2,108,338

                    Operating expenses     358,743

                        Total     2,467,081

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,439,344

                    Interdepartmental transfer     27,737

                        Total     2,467,081

Sec. 143.  Social and rehabilitation services - disability determination services

                    Personal services     2,767,702

                    Operating expenses     457,329

                        Total     3,225,031

               Source of funds

                    Federal funds     2,979,886

                    Interdepartmental transfer     245,145

                        Total     3,225,031

Sec. 144.  Social and rehabilitation services - family support child care

                    Grants     1,489,949

               Source of funds

                    General fund     812,638

                    Federal funds  677,311

                        Total     1,489,949

Sec. 145.  Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access - administration

                    Personal services     26,081,637

                    Operating expenses     4,808,407

                    Grants     976,737

                        Total     31,866,781

               Source of funds

                    General fund     12,070,236

                    Special funds     1,962,319

                    Federal funds     17,834,226

                        Total     31,866,781

Sec. 146.  Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access - Reach Up

                    Grants     43,538,736

               Source of funds

                    General fund     16,426,772

                    Special funds     2,200,000

                    Federal funds     24,911,964

                        Total     43,538,736

     (a)  An 18-year-old dependent child who is a full-time student in a secondary school, or attending an equivalent level of vocational or technical training, and reasonably expected to complete the program before reaching age 19 or not expected to complete the program before reaching age 19 solely due to a documented disability, may remain on the Reach Up grant.  Coverage of disabled 18-year olds shall remain in effect for so long as required by court decision.

Sec. 147.  Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access - aid to aged, blind and disabled

                    Personal services     1,231,308

                    Grants     9,574,128

                        Total     10,805,436

               Source of funds

                    General fund     10,805,436

Sec. 148.  SECTION RESERVED

     Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access – Medicaid

Sec. 149.  Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access - general assistance

                    Grants     4,0726,260

               Source of funds

                    General fund     3,264,939

                    Special funds  1

                    Federal funds  811,320

                        Total     4,076,260

     (a)  Of the above appropriation, $227,000.00 in federal TANF funds and $50,000 general funds is allocated specifically for assistance to families who demonstrate that they are faced with a reasonably preventable loss of housing and who meet state requirements for this assistance, as established by regulation effective July 1, 1998, including modifications effective July 1, 1999, July 1, 2000, and July 1, 2002 of the above general fund appropriation, $50,000 shall be used for rent in arrearage for two months.  Assistance under this provision is not an entitlement, and shall cease upon expenditure of these allocated funds.

     (b)  Of the above appropriation, an amount not to exceed $150,000.00 ($75,000.00 federal TANF funds and $75,000.00 general funds) may be expended for temporary housing assistance to individuals and families that have reached the 28-day maximum allowed under department regulations, and have a continued need for this type of emergency assistance.  Assistance shall be limited to an additional 56 cumulative days beyond the current 28-day maximum.  Assistance under this provision is not an entitlement, and shall cease upon expenditure of these allocated funds.

     (c)  The commissioner of prevention, assistance, transition, and health access shall adopt rules to require the cremation of the bodies of individuals buried at public expense, as authorized by 33 V.S.A. § 2301, unless the decedent or the decedent’s family has expressly requested an alternate arrangement.

     (d)  The commissioner of prevention, assistance, transition, and health access shall establish the procedures necessary to limit general assistance payment for medical and dental services and items to those required to treat an emergency medical need, as defined by rule, for applicants not subject to an income eligibility test.  Such procedures shall, at a minimum, incorporate the features of the pharmacy best practices and cost control program authorized under Sec. 123(n) of No. 63 of the Acts of 2001, and the establishment of a list of drug classifications for which general assistance payments are not made. The commissioner shall adopt such rules as are necessary to establish the procedures specified in this subsection.

Sec. 150.  Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access - home heating fuel assistance/LIHEAP

                    Personal services     20,000

                    Operating expenses     90,000

                    Grants     8,352,075

                        Total     8,462,075

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     8,462,075

Sec. 151.  PREVENTION, ASSISTANCE, TRANSITION, AND HEALTH

                 ACCESS - HOME HEATING FUEL ASSISTANCE/LIHEAP

     (a)  All federal funds granted to the state for home heating fuel assistance under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or other similar federal program in fiscal year 2003, and all unexpended LIHEAP funds granted to the state in fiscal year 2002, are hereby transferred to the home heating fuel assistance trust fund for the provision of home heating fuel assistance including program administration, under chapter 26 of Title 33.

     (b)  For the purposes of a crisis set-aside, seasonal home heating fuel assistance through December 31, 2002, and program administration, the commissioner of finance and management shall transfer $2,550,000.00 from the home weatherization assistance trust fund to the home heating fuel assistance trust fund to the extent that federal LIHEAP or similar federal funds are not available.  An equivalent amount shall be returned to the home weatherization trust fund from the home heating fuel assistance trust fund to the extent that federal LIHEAP or similar federal funds are received.  Should a transfer of funds from the home weatherization assistance trust fund be necessary for the 2002-2003 crisis set-aside and seasonal home heating fuel assistance through December 31, 2002, and LIHEAP funds awarded as of December 31, 2002 for fiscal year 2003 do not exceed $2,550.000.00, subsequent payments under the home heating fuel assistance program shall not precede January 30, 2003.  Notwithstanding any other provision of law, payments authorized by the office of home heating fuel assistance shall not exceed funds available except that for fuel assistance payments made through December 31, 2002, the commissioner of finance and management may anticipate receipts into the home weatherization assistance trust fund.

     (c)  Of the funds appropriated for home heating fuel assistance/LIHEAP in this act, no more than $900,000.00 shall be expended for crisis fuel assistance benefits, crisis fuel direct service/administration, and crisis fuel after-hours assistance.  In the 2002-2003 fuel season, in the event that $900,000.00 is insufficient to fund the crisis component of the fuel program, as defined above, and inadequate federal LIHEAP emergency contingency funding is released to the state during the 2002-2003 program year, the home weatherization assistance trust fund may be the source, consistent with 33 V.S.A. § 2502(d), of the additional funds required.

Sec. 152.  THE ADOPTION OF PREVENTION, ASSISTANCE,

                  TRANSITION, AND HEALTH ACCESS RULES

     (a)  The secretary of human services is authorized to adopt rules under the expeditious rulemaking procedures provided in this section in order that changes reflected in this act to programs administered by the department of prevention, assistance, transition, and health access may be implemented by July 1, 2002.  Notwithstanding the provisions to the contrary of 3 V.S.A. chapter 25, the agency of human services may file prior to and adopt, effective July 1, 2002, all rules necessary to exempt all individuals domiciled in the state of Vermont from the implementation of Sec. 115(a) of Public Law 104-193 through June 30, 2003.

     (b)  Such rules may be adopted by filing them in proposed form with the secretary of state and the legislative committee on administrative rules under 3 V.S.A. § 841, after the agency of human services publication, in three daily Vermont newspapers of highest average circulation, of a notice that lists all rules to be adopted by this process and provides for a seven-day public comment period.  The legislative committee on administrative rules shall review and may approve or object to the final proposed rules under the provisions of 3 V.S.A. § 842, except that its action shall be completed within 20 days.  Rules so adopted may be effective as soon as five days after adoption, and have the full force and effect of rules adopted pursuant to 3 V.S.A. chapter 25, and may supersede or amend existing rules.  Any such rules filed by the secretary of human services with the secretary of state shall be deemed to be in full compliance with 3 V.S.A. § 843, and shall be accepted by the secretary of state if filed with a certification by the secretary of human services that the rule is required to meet the purposes of this section.

Sec. 153.  Prevention, assistance, transition, and health access - food stamp cash out

                    Grants     4,790,717

               Source of funds

                    Federal funds     4,790,717

Sec. 154.  Developmental and mental health services - central office

                    Personal services     2,055,984

                    Operating expenses     712,273

                        Total     2,768,257

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,250,277

                    Federal funds     1,517,980

                        Total     2,768,257

Sec. 155.  Developmental and mental health services - community mental health

                    Personal services     2,059,963

                    Operating expenses     389,980

                    Grants     75,117,163

                        Total     77,567,106

               Source of funds

                    General fund     23,257,695

                    Special funds     6,893,538

                    Federal funds     45,406,627

                    Interdepartmental transfer     77,567,106

                        Total     77,140,049

Sec. 156.  Developmental and mental health services - developmental services

                    Personal services     2,709,070

                    Operating expenses     452,231

                    Grants     81,439,855

                        Total     84,601,156

               Source of funds

                    General fund     31,000,344

                    Special funds  905,890

                    Federal funds     51,601,156

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,093,300

                        Total     84,601,156

Sec. 157.  Developmental and mental health services - Vermont state hospital

                    Personal services     9,220,691

                    Operating expenses     1,281,146

                    Grants     143,000

                        Total     10,644,837

               Source of funds

                    General fund     3,782,189

                    Special funds  145,064

                    Federal funds     6,717,584

                        Total     10,644,837

Sec. 158.  Developmental and mental health services - employment services

                    Grants     931,188

               Source of funds

                    General fund     348,544

                    Federal funds  582,644

                        Total     931,188

Sec. 159.  Aging and disabilities - administration and support

                    Personal services     12,872,578

                    Operating expenses     2,174,340

                        Total     15,046,918

               Source of funds

                    General fund     4,272,235

                    Special funds  295,000

                    Federal funds     9,402,807

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,076,876

                        Total     15,046,918

     (a)  Personal care attendants are exempt from 21 V.S.A. § 342 and shall not be construed as state employees except for purposes of 21 V.S.A. chapters 9 and 17.

     (b)  Of the above appropriation, at least $10,000.00 shall be expended by the department for the support of “The Independent”, an independent newsletter to provide information and education on aging and disabilities issues.

Sec. 160.  Aging and disabilities - division of advocacy and independent living

                    Grants     17,824,820

               Source of funds

                    General fund     8,354,725

            Transportation fund   522,000

                    Special funds  710,855

                    Federal funds     8,162,240

                    Interdepartmental transfer     75,000

                        Total     17,824,820

     (a)  Notwithstanding 32 V.S.A. § 706, the department may transfer up to $250,000.00 in general funds for the elderly mental health initiative to the department of developmental and mental health services to maximize the use of Medicaid funds.

     (b)  The conversion of 10 lower-level beds to nursing home level of care shall be deemed approved, notwithstanding the provisions of subchapter 5 of chapter 221 of Title 18, provided that the nursing home has reduced the number of its nursing home beds from 50 to 30 within the previous five years, and the potential annual cost to the state, calculated by assuming that all converted beds will be funded by Medicaid, shall not exceed $250,000.00.

Sec. 161.  Aging and disabilities - blind and visually impaired

                    Grants     1,416,285

               Source of funds

                    General fund     540,106

                    Special funds  120,000

                    Federal funds  756,179

                        Total     1,416,285

Sec. 162.  Aging and disabilities - vocational rehabilitation

                    Grants     5,095,515

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,579,195

                    Federal funds     3,516,320

                        Total     5,095,515

Sec. 163.  Aging and disabilities - TBI home and community based waiver

                    Grants     2,251,760

               Source of funds

                    General fund     842,834

                    Federal funds     1,408,926

                        Total     2,251,760

     (a)  The state shall allocate the appropriation for the traumatic brain injured waiver for fiscal year 2003 in the following manner:  rehabilitation program, 77 slots; long-term program, 22 slots.  The number of long-term program slots may be increased by no more than eight if matching funds are available to support the additional slots.

Sec. 164.  Office of economic opportunity

                    Personal services     373,206

                    Operating expenses     78,588

                    Grants     4,926,278

                        Total     5,378,072

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,146,134

                    Special funds  91,615

                    Federal funds     3,774,946

                    Interdepartmental transfer     365,377

                        Total     5,378,072

     (a)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $485,000.00 shall be granted to community agencies for homeless assistance by preserving existing services or increasing resources available statewide.  These funds may be granted alone or in conjunction with federal McKinney emergency shelter funds.  Grant decisions shall be made with assistance from the coalition of homeless Vermonters.

Sec. 165.  Office of economic opportunity - weatherization assistance

                    Personal services     143,735

                    Operating expenses     30,761

                    Grants     5,276,940

                        Total     5,451,436

               Source of funds

                    Special funds     4,500,998

                    Federal funds  950,438

                        Total     5,451,436

Sec. 166.  Corrections - administration

                    Personal services     1,817,690

                    Operating expenses     322,087

                    Grants     3,503,263

                        Total     5,643,040

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,073,040

                    Special funds  20,000

                    Federal funds     3,550,000

                        Total     5,643,040

Sec. 167.  Corrections - parole board

                    Personal services     214,159

                    Operating expenses     65,555

                        Total     279,714

               Source of funds

                    General fund     279,714

     (a)  To reduce the costs of transportation and meeting time, the parole board is directed, whenever possible, to conduct interviews and reviews with inmates eligible for parole and parolees though the use of videoconferencing technology.

Sec. 168.  Corrections - correctional education

                    Personal services     2,628,772

                    Operating expenses     362,210

                        Total     2,990,982

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,545,154

                    Interdepartmental transfer     445,828

                        Total     2,990,982

Sec. 169.  Corrections - correctional services

                    Personal services     49,736,235

                    Operating expenses     23,296,999

                    Grants     379,500

                        Total     73,412,734

               Source of funds

                    General fund     70,693,384

                    Transportation fund     1,424,702

                    Special funds  549,500

                    Tobacco funds  87,500

                    Federal funds  465,651

                    Interdepartmental transfer     191,997

                        Total     73,412,734

     (a)  Of the above general fund appropriation, $67,000.00 shall be used as a grant to Dismas House of Vermont, Inc.

     (b)  In order to achieve reductions in cost of placements of Vermont inmates in out-of-state correctional facilities, the commissioner of corrections is directed to solicit competitive bids from public and private correctional facilities and institutions located in another state.

Sec. 170.  28 V.S.A. § 102(c)(14) is amended to read:

(14)  To collect a fee in the amount of up to $30.00 per month as a supervisory fee from each person under the supervision of the department who is on probation, furlough, supervised community service, or parole, except that offenders on reparative probation, and offenders who cannot pay or can demonstrate other good cause may be exempted from all or part of such fee.  Sec. 171.  Corrections - correctional facilities- recreation

                    Personal services     391,579

                    Operating expenses     304,450

                        Total     696,029

               Source of funds

                    Special funds  696,029

Sec. 172.  VENDOR TELEPHONE RATES

     (a)  In fiscal year 2003, the department shall, by contract with its vendors, reduce by five percent that portion of telephone service rates for inmates in fiscal year 2002 that is attributable to commissions.  In fiscal year 2004, the department shall reduce by 10 percent that portion of rates for inmates in fiscal year 2003 that is attributable to commissions.  In fiscal year 2005, the department shall reduce by 10 percent that portion of the telephone service rates for inmates in fiscal year 2004 that is attributable to commissions.  In fiscal year 2006, the department shall eliminate that portion of the telephone service rates for inmates in fiscal year 2005 that is attributable to commissions.

Sec. 173.  Corrections - Vermont correctional industries

                    Personal services     1,195,154

                    Operating expenses     741,900

                         Total     1,937,054

               Source of funds

                    Internal service funds     1,937,054

Sec. 174.  CORRECTIONS FEES AND COSTS; COLLECTION STUDY

     (a)  The legislative joint fiscal office shall conduct a study and review of all costs incurred by the state to provide persons in the custody of the commissioner of corrections or otherwise in the state corrections system with support, maintenance, shelter, food, services, education and training, and supervision, including parole and furlough expenses.

     (b)  The office shall also study and review any existing or potential sources of revenue from such persons under supervision of the department of corrections, including any fees, assessments, public defender charges, or contributions of work or services, and the like.

     (c)  The office shall also study and review ways and means of increasing the collections of revenues from persons in the corrections system for the services provided.  The office shall consider the feasibility of the establishment of a designated entity within the department of corrections, or elsewhere in state government, charged with responsibility for making such collections.

     (d)  The joint fiscal office shall report its findings and recommendations to the house and senate committees on appropriations on or before January 15, 2003.

Sec. 175.  Children’s trust fund

                    Grant      284,156

               Source of funds

                    General fund     106,156

                    Special funds  90,000

                    Federal funds  88,000

                        Total     284,156

     (a)  At least 65 percent of the state appropriation for the children’s trust fund will be awarded for community-based program activities for the broad range of child abuse and neglect prevention activities.

Sec. 176.  Retired senior volunteer program

                    Grants     132,400

               Source of funds

                    General fund     132,400

Sec. 177.  Disabled & needy veterans

                    Personal services   1,850

                    Operating expenses 7,025

                    Grants     28,815

                        Total     37,690

               Source of funds

                    General fund     37,690

Sec. 178.  Vermont veterans’ home - care and support services

                    Personal services     9,278,671

                    Operating expenses     3,120,455

                        Total     12,399,126

               Source of funds

                    General fund     1,072,300

                    Special funds     8,025,908

                    Federal funds     3,300,918

                        Total     12,399,126

Sec. 179.  Amendment

Sec. 3 of No. 3 of the Acts of 1999, as amended by Sec. 118 of No. 152 of the Acts of 2000 and Sec. 3 of No. 63 of the Acts of 2001, is further amended to read:

     Sec. 3.   EFFECTIVE DATE

     This act shall be effective from the date of passage and shall be repealed on July 1, 2002.

Sec. 180.  Sec. 4 of No. 145 of the Acts of 2000 is amended to read:

     Sec. 4.   NURSING POSITIONS AT THE VERMONT VETERANS’                       HOME

* * *

     (c)  This section is repealed on July 1, 20022004.

Sec. 181.  Vermont Association for Blind and Visually Impaired, Inc.

                    Grants     24,885

               Source of funds

                    General fund     24,885

Sec. 182.  Total human services     630,204,961

               Source of funds

                    General fund     253,522,568

                    Transportation fund     2,021,702

                    Special funds     42,108,608

                    Tobacco fund     6,328,500

                    Federal funds     316,735,239

                    Permanent trust   10,000

                    Internal service funds     1,937,054

                    Interdepartmental transfer     7,541,290

                        Total     630,204,961

Sec. 183.  Employment and training

                    Personal services     17,285,217

                    Operating expenses     5,299,433

                    Grants     3,484,000

                        Total     26,068,650

               Source of funds

                    General fund     220,998

                    Special funds  10,000

                    Federal funds     22,886,652

                    Interdepartmental transfer     2,951,000

                        Total     26,068,650

Sec. 184.  Employment and training - apprenticeship

                    Personal services     403,223

                    Operating expenses     126,149

                    Grants     155,280

                        Total     684,652

               Source of funds

                    General funds  550,395

                    Special funds  134,257

                        Total     684,652

Sec. 185.  Total employment and training     26,753,302

               Source of funds

                    General fund     771,393

                    Special funds  144,257

                    Federal funds     22,886,652

                    Interdepartmental transfer     2,951,000

                        Total     26,753,302

Sec. 186.  Education - finance and administration

                    Personal services     3,114,217

                    Operating expenses     1,100,411

                    Grants     11,107,500

                        Total     15,322,128

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,919,211

                    Special funds  12,292

                    Federal funds     12,390,625

                        Total     15,322,128

     (a)  To the department of education for the Bennington School District to be used to support expenses associated with the Catamount Elementary School trip to the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. where they will be recognized as a Creative Ticket National School of Distinction for the 2001-2002 school year.  This award recognizes schools that have done an outstanding job of implementing an arts-centered approach to learning.

Sec. 187.  Education - standards and assessment

                    Personal services     2,947,755

                    Operating expenses     684,937

                    Grants     1,205,096

                        Total     4,837,788

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,390,320

                    Special funds  44,672

                    Federal funds     2,402,796

                        Total     4,837,788

Sec. 188.  Education - education quality

                    Personal services     6,205,999

                    Operating expenses     2,158,264

                    Grants     92,432,595

                        Total     100,796,858

               Source of funds

                    General fund     5,938,450

                    Transportation fund     642,080

                    Education fund     7,949,075

                    Special funds     1,431,360

                    Federal funds     83,573,598

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,262,295

                        Total     100,796,858

     (a)  The appropriations in this section shall be authorized, notwithstanding 16 V.S.A. §§ 1564, 1565, 1566, and 1567.

     (b)  Notwithstanding Sec. 163 (b) of Act No. 63 of the Acts of 2001, $200,000.00 shall be appropriated from the education fund for the purpose of awarding grants to technical centers to support innovative program development responding to emerging technologies and providing high-skill, high wage employment.

Sec. 189.  16 V.S.A. § 179(b) is amended to read:

     (b)  The state board shall ensure that, by the beginning of school year 2002-2003 2004-2005, any Vermont student who wishes, including a student in an approved home school program, may be assessed under this section.

Sec. 190.  Education - special education: formula grants

                    Grants     69,750,914

               Source of funds

                    Education fund     69,750,914

     (a)  Notwithstanding the provisions of 16 V.S.A. § 2969 or any other provisions of law, the reimbursements and grants pursuant to 16 V.S.A. § 2967 for fiscal year 2003 costs incurred by school districts shall be paid partially from the fiscal year 2003 appropriation and partially from the fiscal year 2004 appropriation.  The fiscal year 2003 appropriation will cover the final reimbursements for fiscal year 2002, with the remainder available for reimbursements for fiscal year 2003 grants and reimbursements.  Funds distributed to school districts for fiscal year 2003 expenses, but to which the school districts were not entitled, based on final reports for fiscal year 2003, shall not be considered as part of the total expenditures for fiscal year 2003 under the 60-percent state funding provision of 16 V.S.A. § 2967, as limited by Sec. 10 of No. 117 of the Acts of 2000.  Such funds held by local school districts shall be treated as expenditures in fiscal year 2004.

     (b)  Of the appropriation authorized in this section, and notwithstanding any other provision of law, an amount not to exceed $2,797,220.00 shall be used by the department of education in fiscal year 2003 as funding for 16 V.S.A.

§ 2967(b)(2)-(6).  In distributing such funds, the commissioner shall not be limited by the restrictions contained within 16 V.S.A. § 2969(c) and (d).  In addition to funding for 16 V.S.A. § 2967(b)(2)-(6), up to $125,000.00 may be used by the department of education for its participation in the higher education partnership plan.

Sec. 191.  EDUCATION - SPECIAL EDUCATION; SUCCESS BEYOND               SIX

     (a)  Education funds of the appropriation for special education - formula grants or other funds eligible to be used for matching federal funds-may be used by each supervisory union to participate in the Success Beyond Six program.  The purpose of the program is to expand local partnerships to enhance the educational opportunities of students who are at risk of failure in school.  The services are to be supplied through contracts with

community-based Medicaid providers.  The form and substance of the contracts shall be established as part of the overall agreement for the implementation of the program to be executed between the commissioner of education and the secretary of human services.

Sec. 192.  Education - state-placed students

                    Grants     11,234,600

               Source of funds

                    Education fund     11,234,600

Sec. 193.  Education - adult basic education

                    Grants     3,603,310

               Source of funds

                    General fund     2,530,399

                    Federal funds  872,911

                    Interdepartmental transfer     200,000

                        Total     3,603,310

Sec. 194.  EDUCATION - EDUCATION GRANTS

     (a)  There is appropriated from the education fund for fiscal year 2003 to the department of education $601,043,821.00.  Of the amount appropriated, $569,758,024.00 shall fund the general state support grant under 16 V.S.A.

§ 4011 at $5,566.00 for each equalized pupil, $27,164,260.00 shall fund the standard mainstream block grant under 16 V.S.A. § 2961, and $4,121,537.00 shall fund the essential early education grant under 16 V.S.A. § 2948(c).

Sec. 195.  Education - transportation

                    Grants     12,727,961

               Source of funds

                    Education fund     12,727,961

Sec. 196.  Education - small school grants

                    Grants     4,760,660

               Source of funds

                    Education fund     4,760,660

Sec. 197.  Education - capital debt service aid

                    Grants     3,161,935

               Source of funds

                    Education fund     3,161,935

Sec. 198.  Education - local share property tax

                    Grants     42,200,000

               Source of funds

                    Education fund     42,200,000

     (a)  There is appropriated from the education fund for fiscal year 2003 $42,200,000.00 or such other amount to be paid to districts adopting budgets with local education spending in excess of the general state support grant and that are able to raise less than the predictable yield amount.

     (b)  The sum of $36,000,000.00 from the education fund is allocated to fund the fiscal year 2004 predicted yield calculated pursuant to 16 V.S.A. § 4027.

Sec. 199.  Education - fiscal review panel

                    Operating expenses     13,935

                    Grants     34,000

                        Total     47,935

               Source of funds

                    General fund     47,935

Sec. 200.  Education - civic education

                    Personal Services  1,500

                    Operating expenses 1,500

                    Grants     13,301

                        Total     16,301

               Source of funds

                    General fund     16,301

Sec. 201.  Education - tobacco litigation

                    Personal services     156,615

                    Operating expenses     26,937

                    Grants     750,000

                        Total     933,552

               Source of funds

                    Tobacco fund   933,552

Sec. 202.  Education - Act 117 cost containment

                    Personal services     1,091,325

                    Operating expenses     28,791

                    Grants     65,000

                        Total     1,185,116

               Source of funds

                    Federal funds     1,185,116

     (a)  Notwithstanding any provisions of law, expenditures made during fiscal year 2003 from this section shall be counted under 16 V.S.A. § 2967 as part of the state’s 60 percent of the statewide total special education expenditures of funds which are not derived from federal sources.

Sec. 203.  MEDICAID REIMBURSEMENT ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIAL

                 FUND - DEPOSIT

     (a)  In addition to deposits to the Medicaid Reimbursement Administrative Special Fund in accordance with 16 V.S.A. § 2959a(b), in fiscal year 2003,  $1,185,116.00 of federal Medicaid receipts received for reimbursement of medically-related services provided to students who are Medicaid eligible shall be deposited in the administrative special fund.

Sec. 204.  FUND APPROPRIATION AND TRANSFER

     (a)  There is appropriated in fiscal year 2003 from the general fund for transfer to the education fund the amount of $254,985,935.00.

     (b)  In fiscal year 2004, $263,910,550 shall be appropriated and transferred from the general fund to the education fund.

Sec. 205.  State teachers’ retirement system

                    Personal services     10,037,726

                    Operating expenses     169,674

                    Grants     20,446,282

                        Total     30,653,682

               Source of funds

                    General fund     20,446,282

                    Special funds     10,207,400

                        Total     30,653,682

     (a)  Notwithstanding the provisions of 16 V.S.A. chapter 55, no person shall be eligible to receive benefits from the state teachers’ retirement system who is receiving a continuation of salary under the early retirement provisions of the applicable article of the agreement between Vermont state colleges and the Vermont state colleges faculty federation, VSCFF, AFT, Local 3180, AFL- CIO.

Sec. 206.  16 V.S.A. § 1944(c)(12)(E), (F) and (G) are added to read:

     (E)  for fiscal year 2003, the applicable standard plan shall not exceed the cost of the $250.00 comprehensive plan offered by the board;

     (F)  for fiscal years 2004 and thereafter, the cost of the applicable standard plan determined under this subsection shall not exceed the cost of the $250.00 comprehensive plan offered in fiscal year 2003, adjusted for the appropriate fiscal year.  In the event of the discontinuance of the $250.00 comprehensive plan, a plan with a comparable expenditure profile shall be used as a benchmark; and

     (G)  Notwithstanding subdivisions (E ) and (F) of this subdivision (12), in the event that the teachers retirement board chooses to use an applicable standard plan in which the cost exceeds the cost of the $250.00 comprehensive plan offered by the board, the costs in excess of the $250.00 comprehensive plan offered by the board shall not be borne by the teachers’ retirement fund.

Sec. 207.  TAX DEPARTMENT - REAPPRAISAL AND LISTING

                 PAYMENTS

     (a)  The amount of $2,240,000.00 in education funds is appropriated in fiscal year 2003 to implement the provisions of 32 V.S.A. §§ 4041(a), relating to payments to municipalities for reappraisal costs, and 5405(f), relating to payments of $1.00 per grand list parcel.

Sec. 208.  Total general education     1,159,502,496

               Source of funds

                    General fund     289,274,833

                    Transportation fund     642,080

                    Education fund     755,068,966

                    Special funds     11,695,724

                    Tobacco fund   933,552

                    Federal funds     100,425,046

                    Interdepartmental transfer     1,462,295

                        Total     1,159,502,496

Sec. 209.  University of Vermont

                    Grants     36,197,999

               Source of funds

                    General fund     36,197,999

     (a)  The commissioner of finance and management shall issue warrants to pay one-twelfth of the appropriation to the University of Vermont on or about the 15th of each calendar month of the year.

     (b)  Of the above appropriation, $346,800.00 shall be transferred to EPSCoR for the purpose of complying with state matching fund requirements necessary for the receipt of available federal or private funds, or both.

Sec. 210.  University of Vermont - Morgan horse farm

                    Grants     5,000

               Source of funds

                    General fund     5,000

Sec. 211.  Vermont public television

                    Grants     604,136

               Source of funds

                    General fund     604,136