But, the speaker added, there are very valid arguments against opening the 2006 budget and dealing with just one item — dental care for the disabled. Six weeks of intensive study led the Human Services budget subcommittee to allocate its funds in areas other than dental care during the general session, Curtis noted.

However, in all the noise of a political season, it's unlikely the general public will be able to separate valid budgeting issues, Curtis acknowledged.

Will Democratic legislative candidates use the votes against the $2 million allocation today to pound GOP legislators come November's election?

That depends on each candidate's race, Taylor said. "But I would certainly encourage them to take advantage of it, and several other votes that the Republicans have made."

"I'm pleasantly surprised that (Huntsman) put this on the (legislative) call," said House Minority Leader Ralph Becker, D-Salt Lake. Democrats pushed for the dental coverage throughout the 2006 session and beyond, he added.

"There may be some political benefit to Democrats if the Republican legislators won't put the available money to this purpose," Becker said. "But the politics really are secondary. It is unconscionable and inhumane for a state with our capacity to fail to take care of those most in need in our society."

Curtis puts forward this political reality for Huntsman: "Can I get what I want by putting the responsible parties in a political box" in a special session?

"OK, I won. I got my $2 million. But where does that take you the next general session?"

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