Connecticut Senate Bill SB00187

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/11
• Refer: 1/19/11

Caption

An Act Granting Power To The Governor To Balance The Budget.

Impact

The implications of SB00187 on state laws are quite substantial, as it introduces a level of flexibility rarely seen in state fiscal management. If enacted, the Governor would gain enhanced capabilities to make unilateral decisions regarding budget adjustments. This could involve cuts to spending across various departments or the implementation of emergency financial strategies. Supporters of the bill argue that such powers are essential for maintaining fiscal stability, enabling timely responses to financial emergencies and potentially preventing further economic decline.

Summary

SB00187, titled 'An Act Granting Power To The Governor To Balance The Budget', seeks to provide the Governor of the state with extraordinary powers to manage the state budget more effectively during times of significant fiscal stress. Specifically, the bill grants the Governor the authority to implement measures necessary to balance the budget whenever the projected deficit exceeds fifteen percent of that fiscal year's budget. This broad authority is intended to allow for swift action in addressing financial challenges faced by the state.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its detractors. Critics raise concerns about the potential for overreach and lack of oversight, fearing that giving such powers to the Governor could undermine the legislative process and checks and balances that typically govern state finance. Opponents argue that this could lead to arbitrary fiscal decisions not representative of the public's interests, stressing the importance of maintaining legislative input in budgetary concerns. This conflict between urgent financial management and preserving democratic oversight is likely to be a central point of contention should the bill progress.