ATLANTA — Georgia State Representative Tom Graves (R-Ranger) has authored HB 44, legislation that would require the Governor to present a Zero-Based budget to the General Assembly each year.
“Today’s challenging budget is a great example of why we should have a zero based budget.” Graves continued, “These days require a very clear and transparent process that affords us the opportunity to see the entire budget.”
Georgia currently uses a Continuation Budgeting method which automatically rolls forward previous years’ spending without detailed review. Under this current system, the Governor’s budget specifically details new spending only. HB 44 would require the Governor to itemize the entire budget so that it may be thoroughly examined for previous spending recommendations and performance.
“As the stewards of the taxpayers, it’s imperative that we examine and test the spending programs of previous years.” Graves continued, “It’s time that we review the programs of years past to determine if they are performing efficiently or have they outlived their core purpose.”
SB 1, the Senate version of this bill, unanimously passed the Senate on Thursday, January 29.
HB 44 has currently been assigned to the House Appropriations committee for deliberation.
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