By Tony McVeigh
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkms/local-wkms-962025.mp3
Frankfort, KY – After privately caucusing for a couple of hours, Senate Republicans approved several resolutions symbolically overriding Gov. Beshear's line-item vetoes of the Medicaid bill. The resolutions drew no Democratic support. The chamber then officially adjourned and went home. Constitutionally, lawmakers must be paid for the entire special session, including the veto recess, even though the House adjourned on March 24th. But Senate President David Williams promises there will be no pay for any senator past March 24th. "Either they can make refunds voluntarily, or I will withhold the days over the next several months."
Gov. Beshear called the special session last month after lawmakers failed to balance the Medicaid budget during the 30-day regular session. Beshear says he can balance Medicaid with savings from managed care, and because of his vetoes, he now gets that chance.