Baker Keeps Key Committee Chair Assignment

Having made solid progress during her first term, Senator Lisa Baker (R-20) will have the chance to build on her accomplishments as chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee.

Baker says it is a privilege to be working with our veterans and emergency responders to address the issues they have identified as important.

"We got off to a great start by improving outreach assistance for veterans, securing a tax credit for fire and ambulance volunteers, and making it easier for local governments to cooperate during emergencies," she said. "This year we will continue pushing for improved efficiency and responsiveness in our emergency management system and increased support for our veterans."

Priorities for the coming year include incentives to recruit and retain fire and ambulance volunteers, elimination of unnecessary administrative requirements for volunteer departments, benefits for disabled veterans, assistance for veteran-owned businesses, and programs directed toward veterans returning from service. 

Baker will also serve as vice chair of the Communications and Technology Committee and as a member of the Appropriations, Aging and Youth, Environmental Resources and Energy, and Public Health and Welfare committees.  As a member of the Appropriations Committee, she will play a role in helping provide legislative oversight for spending on state programs.

"Given the troubles in the economy and the serious shortfalls in state revenue, we have to look for ways and places to cut state spending," Baker said.  "A lot of those tough choices will start in the Appropriations Committee as we discuss what state government needs to be doing and what state government can do well in terms of providing services."