Frank talks about budget impact on DNR
Gov. Doyle's appointee to head up the Department of Natural Resources, Matt Frank, said that not having a budget would be "devastating" for the DNR.
Frank said he's most concerned that some members of the Legislature believe that the state could operate without a budget. Frank said it would lead to a 12 percent staff reduction, delay people and industry seeking air and water permits and cut the governor's proposed funding for non-point pollution initiatives.
Frank also said having no budget would affect the DNR's bonding programs, including a program for communities to clean up drinking water.
"There are over 100 municipalities around the state that are lined up to take part in this bonding program so they can clean up their water ... and they aren't going to be able to do that," Frank said.
Frank added no budget would impact all services the DNR provides, including getting licenses, using service centers and state park operations.
Frank made the comments after a Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources meeting where the committee held a public hearing for his nomination.
Listen to the interview here.
--By Matt Dolbey
