Appropriations; making an appropriation to the Department of Transportation. Emergency.
The bill establishes specific guidelines regarding the budget procedures associated with the appropriated funds. It stipulates that the funds budgeted for FY-24 must be encumbered by June 30, 2024, and must be expended by November 15, 2024. If any funds remain after these deadlines and are not carried over into FY-25, they will lapse, reverting to the appropriate fund for that fiscal year. This ensures that fiscal responsibility is maintained while allowing for necessary financial resources to be utilized effectively.
Senate Bill 1150 is a piece of legislation aimed at making appropriations to the Department of Transportation in Oklahoma for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The bill appropriates a sum of $100,000 from the General Revenue Fund of the State Treasury, ensuring that the funds will be used to fulfill the duties imposed on the Department by law. This funding is significant as it supports the operational necessities of the Department, which is responsible for maintaining and improving the state's transportation infrastructure.
One notable aspect of SB1150 is the declaration of an emergency, which is included in the bill. This provision allows the bill to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, streamlining the process to ensure that funding is available without delay. This emergency status, while intended to facilitate prompt action, may also spark discussions regarding the appropriateness of such designations for fiscal matters. Opponents may argue that the emergency declaration is unwarranted, potentially leading to debates around the necessity and urgency of the appropriations in relation to the Department's requirements.