News Release
Office of Budget and Program Planning submits revenue projections to Governor and Legislative Fiscal Analyst
5/24/2002
Chuck Swysgoo
406-444-3698
mschwarz@state.mt.us
Current projections indicate that revenues have not met the expected levels established by the 2001 Legislature. The Legislature based the current budget on projected revenues of $2.66 billion, but the state is projecting a decline of $110.69 million. This shortfall has triggered the law that requires the Administration to reduce state agency budgets.
"I have made recommendations in budget reductions that are intended to affect the fewest number of citizens and have the least impact while at the same time meeting state balanced budget requirements," said Budget Director Chuck Swysgood. "It is important to note that these are reductions in budget increases that were passed with the 2003 biennium budget."
Upon receipt of the revenue projections, the Governor will review them and await the recommendations of the Legislature, following the procedures outlined in statute, prior to making any final budget reduction decisions. Any changes to revenue projections over the course of the next month will influence what reductions will ultimately have to be made.
"These recommended reductions, while required by statute, are tough decisions that will affect the lives of many Montanans," said Governor Martz. "I am very concerned about the impact these reductions will have. If reductions are necessary, we will work to see that they will have the most limited impact possible while at the same time assuring that the state remains fiscally responsible."
Detailed copies of the revenue projections and spending reduction recommendations can be obtained from the Office of Budget and Program Planning at (406) 444-3616.
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