The state taxpayer-funded newsletter service through which Rep. Heather Scott sent out her missive today about refugees (you can read more here on that) is a new venture for the state, for which $17,200 has been budgeted, according to Eric Milstead, director of legislative services.

Glenn Harris, information technology director for the Legislature, said the “Gov Delivery” service started with a pilot project last legislative session; about 10 lawmakers including Scott have used it so far, and have received training on what’s appropriate and not appropriate to send out. Guidelines specify that the service is “for the purpose of sharing information with the public” and may not be used for partisan or campaign purposes. The newsletters carry of the official imprimatur of the state Legislature.

Previously, Harris said, lawmakers had used email to send newsletters to constituents, but they were having increasing problems with the mass emails being blocked by spam filters. The service, he said, “Basically lets members communicate with their constituents, letting them know factual information on what’s going on in the Legislature, topics that would concern them.”