The Legislative Finance Committee voted unanimously Monday to name Amy Carlson of Helena as chief fiscal analyst for the Montana Legislature. She will begin training for her new position Nov. 23.
Carlson, 45, has worked for the Governor's Office of Budget and Program Planning since 1992, most recently as assistant budget director. She has a bachelor's degree in economics from Montana State University and a master's degree in business administration from Seattle University.
She is a Montana native, born in Superior. She attended elementary and secondary schools in Belgrade.
Carlson was selected from among six finalists for the position, which serves as a nonpartisan adviser to the Legislature on budget and fiscal matters. The chief legislative fiscal analyst also manages the Legislative Fiscal Division, one of three divisions of the legislative branch of state government.
Carlson will earn an annual base salary of $102,000. She will replace Clayton Schenck, who plans to retire Dec. 31 after 16 years as legislative fiscal analyst.
"It's both an honor and a privilege to be entrusted with the leadership of the Legislative Fiscal Division," Carlson said. "Clayton Schenck leaves behind a high quality staff that has a long-standing reputation of integrity and excellence. I look forward to working with them and with the legislature."
Schenck told the finance committee that he will work with Carlson to ensure a smooth transition. He will continue to serve as fiscal analyst until his retirement, when Carlson will assume the job.
Rep. Llew Jones, R-Conrad and chair of the finance committee, commended Carlson for her "strong background from years of public service."
"The Montana Legislative Fiscal Division staff is probably one of the best in the nation," Rep. Jones added. "They're one of the key reasons why Montana is one of two states operating with a budget surplus. Amy will have her work cut out for her as she steps in to work with this talented group."
Rep. Jones also thanked Schenck for devoting much of his career to the Montana Legislature and for making it "a better place."
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