The last day of the General Assembly this year could end sooner than it has in the past.
For decades, state lawmakers have often worked into the wee hours of July 1st passing the budget bills and holding last minute votes on others.
But Senate President Pro Tem David McBride said if the spending bills are not passed by 1 a.m. July 1st this year he will call a recess until 4 p.m. later that day to resume work.
McBride, who has served in the legislature since 1979, said he doesn’t know why the late-night practice has lasted so long.
“It’s a very interesting process at Legislative Hall," he said. "Only thing I can say is it’s time to end it and we’re ending it and I have the support of as you know 20 colleagues.”
McBride cited National Highway Safety Administration statistics on drowsy driving to support his decision.
A spokesman for House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf said they don’t intend to follow the Senate via policy, but it’s always the goal to finish on schedule.
Last year’s Senate session ended at 8:35 a.m. on July 1st.
