TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) A panel of Kansas lawmakers is seeking a consulting firm that can identify significant saving opportunities in the state budget.
The Legislative Budget Committee started interviewing firms on Thursday and is expected to make a selection on Friday. The committee is considering pitches from four consultants and is holding each session behind closed doors.
Republican state Rep. Ron Ryckman Jr. of Olathe says the committee wants to be “as open as possible,” but the closed sessions are necessary in order to protect “trade secrets.”
Budget director Shawn Sullivan says it’ll be difficult for the firms to come up with new budget cut ideas, but he’s hopeful that the process will be productive.
Lawmakers earmarked $3 million for a contract with a firm that will perform a study and recommend efficiencies.
