After filling our budget gaps through House Bill 1055, the House was finally able to pass House Bill 948, the Fiscal Year 2011 state budget bill. This budget will direct state spending from July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011 and totals $17.8 billion. If adjusted for both population and inflation, the FY 2011 budget is near mid-1990’s levels. Making these kinds of cuts was not easy. To account for this decline, most agencies are taking reductions between seven percent and 11 percent. Other cuts included eliminating $45.6 million in program and subprograms, eliminating $60.5 million in contracts and activities, and removing 4,500 currently authorized state positions.

Despite these reductions, the House of Representatives continues to prioritize K-12 education funding. We restored $100 million in Quality Basic Education funding and fully funded K- 12 enrollment growth and teacher training and experience. We were also able to restore a base level of funding for the Regional Education Service Agencies (RESAs), which had been proposed for elimination by the Governor. We also found a way to realize efficiencies but still provide the vital functions of Math Mentors, Educational Training Centers, and school improvement by funding these functions through the RESAs.

Behind the Department of Education, the University System of Georgia accounts for the second largest percent of the budget. Although some cuts were necessary, we ensured that reductions were not excessive in order to keep tuition affordable for Georgia students. A total of almost $150 million is designated toward enrollment growth funding for the University System of Georgia and Technical College System. Another $22.4 million is restored to the Tuition Equalization Grant program.

While measures were taken to preserve the future of higher education, the lottery expense continues to grow. This is due to economic downturn and recent layoffs, which have encouraged people to return to school. The House preserved the future of the lottery by reversing a proposal to supplant state general funds with lottery dollars. This action will allow continued funding for Georgia students while leaving lottery funds dedicated to funding our HOPE and Pre-K programs.

The Department of Community Health is the third largest percentage of the FY 2011 state budget. While some cuts were needed, Medicaid and Peachcare will continue to remain fully funded. Six state licensure inspector positions will also be funded to eliminate a backlog and create a more efficient system for licensing healthcare facilities. The sooner these facilities are licensed, the sooner they will be able to provide care and contribute to the economy.

Finally, the House also passed its final adjournment schedule of the 2010 legislative session. According to this schedule, April 29 will mark the 40th and last day of this year’s legislative session. As we complete these final days, I encourage you to contact me with any questions or concerns that you might have regarding our state. As your representative, I would like to know your opinion on these bills and other issues that concern you and your family. You can reach me at my Capitol office at (404) 656- 5116 or my email at jon.burns@house.ga.gov. Thank you for your time.