Acknowledging authority to spend federal funds as authorized in the general appropriations act for the current fiscal year.
Impact
The resolution is significant as it clarifies the state's legal standing to utilize federal funding, particularly in light of the unprecedented amounts of federal stimulus money available for various expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By issuing this resolution, the state government aims to act efficiently and in the best interests of its citizens, particularly in making timely grants from federal funds. This kind of authorization is crucial for enabling state departments to proceed with necessary expenditures without delay.
Summary
Senate Resolution 701, adopted on February 9, 2022, acknowledges the authority of the state of South Dakota to spend federal funds as authorized in the general appropriations act for the current fiscal year. This resolution describes the legal framework that allows state authorities to expend federal funds specifically within the confines set by the state constitution and the appropriations act. It emphasizes that state expenditures must align with ordinary expenses of the executive, legislative, and judicial departments while ensuring compliance with federal laws.
Sentiment
The mood surrounding SR701 appears largely supportive, as evidenced by the unanimous vote passing the resolution (35 yeas, 0 nays). Legislators recognize the necessity of timely and authorized expenditure of federal funds to respond to immediate needs that have arisen from the health crisis. The resolution successfully established a consensus on the importance of managing federal funds carefully to adhere to both state and federal guidelines.
Contention
While there are no major points of contention associated with SR701, it does highlight the ongoing dialogue regarding the appropriate use of federal stimulus funding by state governments. Concerns may arise in the future about ensuring accountability and transparency in how these funds are utilized, particularly as different entities compete for access to limited resources. Moreover, the expiration clause tied to federal guidance indicates potential limitations on how long these funds can be utilized, which may influence future fiscal policies at the state level.
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.