Gov 11-18-19
Governor Mark Gordon released his budget for the
next two fiscal years, charting a fiscally conservative path that keeps ongoing
spending low and calls for a significant reduction in capital construction.
“The changes that are taking place in the energy industry will impact how we
fund government services next year and every year after,” Governor Gordon said.
“To prepare for this uncertain future, it’s important we limit ongoing
spending, ensure government is operating as efficiently as possible, and limit
the use of the rainy day fund. My budget proposal accomplishes all three.”
Governor Gordon’s proposal funds standard agency budgets without cuts for this
biennium and limits ongoing costs. It also keeps the use of the Legislative
Stabilization Reserve Account (LSRA) or “rainy day fund” solely for
legislatively-mandated educational needs and for supporting local communities.
“Additional spending cuts are on the horizon and appear imperative to keep
Wyoming moving forward. We have been afforded the chance to make those cuts
strategically so they will be sustainable,” Gov. Gordon said.
His proposal does call for some one-time investments. These include funding for
research and development that supports the state’s energy industry, school
safety enhancements, facilities that align with the state’s economic needs, and
one-time technology additions that will make government more efficient.
As part of his transparency efforts, the Governor will soon launch “Wyoming
Sense”, a website to help taxpayers understand revenues and see how public
funds are being spent. The site will allow visitors to see the allocation of
dollars to all state agencies, and help them gain an understanding of the
different funding streams that each utilizes.
“Despite the challenges ahead, I remain optimistic,” Governor Gordon added.
“Wyoming people have always persevered through adversity. Our conservatism is
crucial as we exhibit fiscal restraint and acknowledge that government cannot
be everything to everyone. In this budget, I have tried to separate the needs
from the wants and prepare ourselves for the future,” Governor Gordon added.
Gov. Gordon’s letter to the 65th Legislature is available online as is the detailed budget proposal. Gov. Gordon is scheduled to appear before the Joint Appropriations Committee on December 9th.
