Richard Wishnie, Bernice Spreckman

The meeting commenced at 1:45 PM. Leg. Stewart-Cousins called the meeting to order and the first item for discussion was agenda item number 43 – the Millenium issue. Susan Tolchin gave a brief overview of this topic. After the overview and a discussion by the Committee on this topic, Leg. Maisano moved to sign-out, seconded by Leg. Ryan. All in favor [6-0] (Leg. Oros out for the vote).

Next Leg. Stewart-Cousins asked the Board’s consultants to give a final recap of the draft of the Federal Legislative Package. Leg. Stewart-Cousins noted that previously there had been some questions on Federal Package, Administrative Action, item number 1 -- the Census 2000, and she opened the floor for discussion. After

discusion, Leg. Latimer moved to remove same from the Federal Package, seconded by Leg. Maisano. All in favor [6-0] (Leg. Oros out for the vote). Next, Leg. Maisano had some questions on item number 6, "Electric Utility Restructuring." After some discussion, the Committee agreed to invite Karen Pasquale to its next meeting to discuss this item before the final vote on the 22^nd. Leg. Wishnie suggested that Ed Gibbs is another person the Committee should invite. Leg Stewart-Cousins stated that she would do same.

Finally, Leg. Latimer asked that this package be entitled as the "1998-1999" Federa Package. Leg. Abinanti moved to sign-out, seconded by Leg. Latimer. All in favor 7-0 (Leg. Oros, Maisano & Mosiello signed without prejudice).

Next the Electrical Licensing amendment was discussed. Specifically, the language on the reciprocal agreement. Leg. Mosiello moved to sign-out, seconded by Leg. Maisano. All in favor 5-0 (Leg. Latimer & Leg. Oros out for vote).

Next the minutes of September 8, 1998 were discussed. Leg. Maisano moved to accept, seconded by Leg. Abianti. All in favor (6-0) Leg. Latimer out for vote. Next, Leg. Wishnie discussed "in-home nursing care". Leg. Wishnie noted that this was an important topic although it was to late to put in the Federal Package. Specifically he discussed the "interim payment system" which is causing the agencies that provide the services to accept less money. Mr. Hoch explained that this is the most efficient way to provide continual treatment and because of a freeze to the 1993 reimbursement rates they are going to suffer. Leg. Wishnie stated that a resolution was drafted. After some discussion, this Committee agreed that the Health Committee can address this topic.

Leg. Maisano moved to adjourn, seconded by Leg. Abinanti. The meeting ended at 3:15 PM.