Appropriations; making an appropriation to the State Election Board; stating purpose; exempting appropriation from certain limits. Emergency.
Impact
The bill exempts the appropriation from certain fiscal year limitations, allowing the State Election Board to access these funds for a period of thirty months from the bill's approval. By doing so, SB1154 aims to provide the necessary resources to conduct elections without the constraints usually imposed by budget limitations in future fiscal years. This move reflects an acknowledgment of the importance of robust election management in maintaining democratic practices.
Summary
Senate Bill 1154 addresses appropriations by allocating funds specifically to the State Election Board for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $850,000 to facilitate the conducting of elections, which includes support for the Special Election for State Question No. 820 scheduled for March 7, 2023. This funding is designated to ensure the efficient management and execution of electoral processes, ultimately supporting the democratic infrastructure of the state.
Sentiment
The reception of SB1154 appears to be largely positive among legislators, as evidenced by the third reading vote in the House, which ended with 86 yeas and only 1 nay. This overwhelming support suggests that there is a consensus on the importance of ensuring that the State Election Board has adequate funding to carry out its responsibilities, particularly in the context of upcoming elections. While there might be concerns regarding budget allocations from different factions, the necessity for smooth electoral processes seems to outweigh those apprehensions.
Contention
One point of contention surrounding SB1154 could revolve around the prioritization of election funding during a time when state budgets might be tight. Opponents may question whether such funding could be better allocated to other pressing state needs, thus generating a debate on the efficacy of budgetary decisions made by the legislature. Nevertheless, proponents maintain that without sufficient funding for fair and efficient elections, the integrity of democratic processes could be compromised.
Carry Over
Appropriations; making an appropriation to the State Election Board; stating purpose; exempting appropriation from certain limits. Emergency.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.