Making a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Revenue, State Budget Office
Impact
The passage of HB2909 is anticipated to provide additional resources to the Department of Revenue, thereby enabling it to better manage its responsibilities and potentially enhance the efficiency of state financial operations. By supplementing the budget with surplus funds, the state aims to mitigate any cash flow issues that could arise without this additional financial backing. This measure reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that essential state functions are adequately funded during the fiscal year.
Summary
House Bill 2909 proposes a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Revenue, specifically addressing the State Budget Office. This bill aims to amend the budget for the fiscal year 2023 by utilizing funds from the unappropriated surplus balance in the State Fund, General Revenue. The bill includes provisions for various appropriations, primarily focusing on enhancing the financial capability of the State Budget Office through additional funding for personal services, employee benefits, and current expenses.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HB2909 appears to be supportive, as it addresses the necessity for fiscal prudence and enhanced financial management within state agencies. Lawmakers and stakeholders involved in the budget process recognize the importance of ensuring that state departments have the necessary funding to operate effectively. However, debates surrounding fiscal responsibility and prioritization of funding allocations may surface, especially if alternative funding methods or budgeting practices are proposed.
Contention
While consensus on the need for supplemental appropriations exists, contention may arise regarding the allocation of surplus funds and the broader implications for state budgeting. Some legislators may question whether this approach addresses underlying systemic issues within the state's financial management or if it merely serves as a stopgap measure. Additionally, concerns might be raised about the long-term impact on funding for other vital state programs that could potentially face reductions as a result of prioritizing the Department of Revenue's budget.
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.