The House Finance Committee voted Thursday to advance legislation requiring state agencies to pay contractors within the same timeframe as private contractors, despite concerns about costs and unintended consequences. House Bill 133 would force state departments to match payment standards already required for private contractors on public works projects. The bill extends those requirements to contracts with tribal organizations, municipalities and nonprofits. The measure adds seven full-time employees at over $1 million in costs, with implementation delayed until July 2027. The committee approved the measure 7-4 after heated debate about whether the legislation would actually solve systemic payment delays or create new problems. Supporters argued it would force accountability after departments admitted to paying bills weeks or months late. Critics worried about the fiscal impact and potential for departments to prioritize large contracts over smaller ones. "I think because of this bill, we saw one department come forward and very forthrightly say, yes, for the first time we are really looking at this," said sponsor Representative Rebecca Himschoot. "I do not think that this is going to get in the way of paying our bills on time, instead I think it may be the impetus that is needed." Representative Neal Foster opposed the bill, arguing departments might game the system. "What will end up happening is they will prioritize the big contracts they have and they will pay the smaller people, the non-profit, small non-profits, Meals on Wheels and similar organizations at the very end," Foster said. Representative Jamie Allard also voted against the measure, citing the addition of seven full-time employees to departments that already have many vacancies. "I think we should be holding these departments accountable," Allard said. The bill includes an amendment requiring departments to report payment timelines to lawmakers by January. That reporting requirement takes effect immediately while the main provisions are delayed until fiscal year 2028.