State revenue collections have not yet recovered from the recent recession and, as most federal stimulus funds for state government have ended, the FY 2012 brings more cuts for state agencies.
The JLBC budget recommendation includes a reduction of state source funds of almost $65 million from the lean FY 2011 state budget that was itself the result of multiple rounds of cuts. The Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP) is recommended for “level” funding from the FY 2011 budget, but the recommendation falls well short – almost a quarter of a billion dollars – of full funding. If the budget is funded as recommended, this will mark the fourth year in which MAEP was underfunded. Mid-level funding for Community Colleges is also not attained.
The table below shows the JLBC budget recommendation by category compared with the FY 2011 budget.
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Summary of JLBC FY 2012 State Source Budget Recommendation by Budget Category
More budget cuts for state agencies that have already dealt with multiple rounds of cuts will mean decreased access to and quality of state services like education, public safety, and mental health. A balanced approach that includes additional revenue is necessary to protect our investments in working Mississippians. These investments are vital for the state’s recovery and future prosperity.
Stay tuned for more detailed analysis of the JLBC budget recommendation throughout the week.
Source:
Joint Legislative Budget Committee Budget Recommendation FY 2012
