Connecticut House Bill HB05805

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/11
• Refer: 1/24/11

Caption

An Act Instituting The Constitutional Spending Cap.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05805 would significantly influence the state's financial governance by legally constraining fiscal policies and budgetary allocations within the bounds of the newly established spending cap. This change is designed to prevent excessive state spending, potentially improving the state's financial health in the long run. Supporters argue that a constitutional spending cap would force the government to prioritize essential services and manage resources more effectively, which could lead to better governance and reduced public debt.

Summary

House Bill 05805 aims to institute a constitutional spending cap within the state of Connecticut. This proposed legislation seeks to amend the general statutes, defining specific terms related to the spending cap as required by Article XXVIII of the Amendments to the state constitution. The intent behind the bill is to provide a clear framework for state budgeting, ensuring that state expenditures do not exceed certain limits specified by the Constitution, thereby promoting fiscal accountability and stability.

Contention

However, the introduction of a constitutional spending cap has sparked debate among lawmakers and stakeholders. Critics worry that such limitations could lead to underfunding of vital public services, including education and health care, especially during economic downturns when state revenues may naturally decline. They contend that rigid spending limits may hamstring legislators' ability to respond dynamically to the state’s needs, potentially resulting in a negative impact on quality of life for residents during critical times.