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Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue
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Governor Perdue Signs FY08 Budget

Wednesday, May 30, 2007  Contact: Office of Communications 404-651-7774

 

 

Issues line-item veto and appropriation language saving state $18 million in cash this year and $123 million in debt

 

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue today signed into law HB95 which authorizes Georgia's Fiscal Year 2008 Budget.  The FY08 budget year begins July 1, 2007. 

“The FY08 budget lays the foundation to move Georgia from a good state to the state of the future,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.  “We have budgeted within our means and made sure to responsibly set aside money for the future while making sure our state grows today.”

The budget includes funding for almost all of the proposals on which Governor Perdue campaigned.  It continues his focus on education with funding for Middle School Graduation Coaches and to keep Georgia teachers the highest paid in the Southeast.  It also includes money for the Child Safety Initiative (anti-online predator program) and the Georgia Secure ID, as well as funding to double the size of the GBI Meth Force.  The budget saves for the future by including $42 million for land conservation and setting aside $100 million for Other Post-Employment Benefits.  It also continues to grow Georgia by increasing funding for international economic development and including a tax incentive for companies who invest in bio-fuels.

The Governor also line-item vetoed certain budget measures to ensure a disciplined budget.  The savings total $18,026,380 in cash this year; including $10,747,695 in debt service and $7,278,685 in cash projects.  In addition, the Governor vetoed $122,970,000 in bonds, keeping Georgia's bond debt within the responsible boundaries of the state's debt management plan.  Vetoed items and messages are below.
Vetoes

Section 16, pertaining to the Department of Community Affairs, page 43, items 60.2 and 60.3:

 

The General Assembly appropriates funds for specific projects through the Department of Community Affairs' Local Assistance Grants.  Such grants are intended to be small but meaningful grants to local communities for certain projects.  Such grants are not the appropriate method to include large grants to local communities.  As the identified grants are significantly larger than the numerous other small but meaningful grants, I veto these items.

 

Section 21, pertaining to the Department of Early Care and Learning, page 90, line 106.7 and part of line 106:

 

The General Assembly appropriated $900,000 in state general funds to the Pre-Kindergarten program in order to provide funds to the Ferst Foundation for distribution of one book per month to children ages 0 to 5 years in participating counties.  While reading to children is important, due to the failure to provide sufficient funding available to implement the program on a statewide basis and no consideration of need, I veto the state general funds of $900,000 in the Pre-Kindergarten program.

 

Section 22, pertaining to the Department of Economic Development, page 95, lines 116, 116.1, 116.2, and 116.99:

 

The General Assembly appropriated $633,685 state general funds for the purpose of providing operating funds for the Golf Hall of Fame.  The Conference Committee agreed to provide $500,000 for operations and $75,000 for a feasibility study for a private/public partnership.  These funds are in addition to $58,685 currently provided for operating support.  The amount appropriated represents an increase of over 980% and seems excessive given other needs in the state budget.  Therefore, I veto this program and the associated appropriation. 

 

Section 34, pertaining to the Department of Natural Resources, page 192, lines 274 and 274.2:

 

The General Assembly appropriated $250,000 in state general funds for the Georgia State Games Commission.  State funding for this program is not justified, as the intention of this funding is not consistent with the mission of the program.  Therefore, I veto this appropriation. 

 

Section 46, pertaining to the Department of Transportation, page 251, line 381.10 and part of line 381:

 

The General Assembly appropriated $5,000,000 in state general funds for Local Road Assistance, specifically for the LARP program.  Under my administration, LARP has been funded at record levels.  In Fiscal Year 2006 funding for LARP increased by 58% over funding in Fiscal Year 2005.  Even without the $5,000,000 in state general funds, LARP will be funded at the second highest annual appropriation since 1990 ($60,000,000 in motor fuel funds).  The utilization of state general funds for LARP contradicts current policy.  Therefore, I veto the appropriation of state general funds of $5,000,000.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the State of Georgia General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 262, line 397.108:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $387,600 in debt service to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Public Safety specifically for the repair of the burn building and to build a new apparatus for students at the Georgia Fire Academy through the issuance of $1,700,000 in 5-year bonds.  In consideration of other priority items as expressed by the General Assembly and limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan, this project is not warranted.  Therefore, I veto this language (page 262, line 397.108) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $387,600.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the State of Georgia General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 263, line 397.206:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $427,150 in debt service to finance projects and facilities for the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission specifically for the purchase of land to develop a research park in Oconee County through the issuance of $5,000,000 in 20-year bonds.  Financing for this project should not be considered until a decision has been made regarding the viability of a research park and suitability of this location for economic development.  Due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 263, line 397.206) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $427,150.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the State of Georgia General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 263, line 397.207:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $599,291 in debt service to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Transportation, specifically for rail lines for Lyerly to Rossville, Midville to Vidalia, and Waycross through the issuance of $7,015,000 in 20-year bonds.  Financing for these rail projects should not be considered until processes for project selection have been reviewed and adequate justification is made for continued state investment.  Due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 263, line 397.207) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $599,291. 

 

Section 49, pertaining to the State of Georgia General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 263, line 397.208:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $3,417,200 in motor fuel funds for debt service to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Transportation, specifically for the Buckhead, Midtown, and Atlanta Downtown Community Improvement Districts Peachtree Corridor through the issuance of $40,000,000 in 20-year bonds.  In order to issue bonds on a project, the state must have the property rights to the road.  The projects identified are not on state routes and therefore cannot be funded using this method.  In addition, motor fuel funds may only be used on road and bridge projects.  In order to insure that congestion relief is paramount, the recommendations of the Governor's Congestion Mitigation Task Force must be taken into account as projects are prioritized.  Currently, the projects identified are not part of the State Transportation Improvement Program, and funding such projects contradicts current policy by earmarking projects that are not part of the state plan.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 263, line 397.208) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state motor fuel funds of $3,417,200.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the State of Georgia General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 263, line 397.209:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $170,860 in debt service to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Transportation, specifically for the construction of a welcome center for Tallulah Falls on the Rabun County side through the issuance of $2,000,000 in 20-year bonds.  In consideration of other priority items as expressed by the General Assembly and limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan, I veto this language (page 263, line 397.209) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $170,860. 

 

Section 49, pertaining to the State of Georgia General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 264, line 397.305:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $683,440 in debt service to finance educational facilities for county and independent school systems through the State Board of Education specifically for the design and construction of a charter school to be operated by the Cobb County School System.  Historically, funding for a start-up charter school is not included in general obligation debt, and its inclusion here sets a costly precedent.  Funding is available for operating and facility grants on a competitive basis for start-up charter schools through the Department of Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 264, line 397.305) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $683,440.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 267, line 397.515:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $427,150 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically, to renovate the Hinman Research Building and portions of its east and west Architecture Buildings at the Georgia Institute of Technology, through the issuance of not more than $5,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 267, line 397.515) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $427,150.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 267, line 397.516:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $162,317 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically, to fund infrastructure improvements on a local land gift, State University of West Georgia, through the issuance of not more than $1,900,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 top ten of minor projects on the capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 267, line 397.516) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $162,317.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 267, line 397.518:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $85,340 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically, to renovate the Physical Education Building to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Georgia State University, through the issuance of not more than $1,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 267, line 397.518) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $85,340.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 267, line 397.520:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $341,720 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically, to renovate Nevins Hall, Valdosta State project, through the issuance of not more than $4,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 top ten of minor projects on the capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 267, line 397.520) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $341,720.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 269, line 397.563:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $213,575 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to purchase land and a building for the Spalding County Campus, through the issuance of not more than $2,500,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list for the Department of Technical and Adult Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 269, line 397.563) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $213,575.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 269, line 397.564:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $415,614 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to design and construct Elbert County Campus Technical and Industrial Facility, Athens Area Technical College, through the issuance of not more than $4,865,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  Funding for major projects is the priority for Fiscal Year 2008 for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, and this project is not included among the major projects.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 269, line 397.564) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $415,614.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 270, line 397.567:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $128,145 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to construct the Airframe and Power-Plant Maintenance School on the Thomson-McDuffie Regional Airport Property, Augusta Tech project, through the issuance of not more than $1,500,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  Funding for major projects is the priority for Fiscal Year 2008 for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, and this project is not included among the major projects.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 270, line 397.567) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $128,145.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 270, line 397.568:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $128,145 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to construct an auditorium on the Forsyth County campus, Lanier Technical College, through the issuance of not more than $1,500,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list for the Department of Technical and Adult Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 270, line 397.568) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $128,145.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 270, line 397.569:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $426,723 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to construct a 25,600 sq.ft. building expansion on the Dawson County campus, Lanier Technical College, through the issuance of not more than $4,995,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list for the Department of Technical and Adult Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 270, line 397.568) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $426,723.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 270, line 397.571:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $42,715 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to construct a new hangar building and renovate an existing facility at Coosa Valley Technical College, through the issuance of not more than $500,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list for the Department of Technical and Adult Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 270, line 397.571) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $42,715.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, pages 270 and 271, line 397.573:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $341,720 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to construct an automotive technology building at Southeastern Technical College, through the issuance of not more than $4,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list for the Department of Technical and Adult Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (pages 270 and 271, line 397.573) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $341,720.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 271, line 397.575:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $598,010 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to fund minor repairs and renovations, through the issuance of not more than $7,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  Funds within the Department of Technical and Adult Education state budget are sufficient to cover minor repairs and maintenance projects.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 271, line 397.575) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $598,010.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 271, line 397.576:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $85,430 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Technical and Adult Education, specifically to construct an aviation technology/maintenance school at the Gilmer County Airport at Appalachian Technical College, through the issuance of not more than $1,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list for the Department of Technical and Adult Education.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 271, line 397.576) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $85,430.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 271, line 397.583:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $170,860 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically to design and construct the Fairplay Public Library, Douglas County, through the issuance of not more than $2,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 271, line 397.583) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $170,860.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 271, line 397.584:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $136,688 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically, to construct as part of the Okefenokee Regional Library System, Pierce County Public Library, through the issuance of not more than $1,600,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 271, line 397.584) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $136,688.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, pages 271 and 272, line 397.585:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $170,860 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically to renovate as part of the Conyers-Rockdale County Library System, through the issuance of not more than $2,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 top three of public library projects on the capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (pages 271 and 272, line 397.585) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $170,860.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 272, line 397.586:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $161,889 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically funds for the Senoia Public Library and Grantville Public Library in the Troup-Harris-Coweta Regional Library System, through the issuance of not more than $1,895,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This project is not included on the Fiscal Year 2008 top three of public library projects on the capital budget priority list of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 272, line 397.586) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $161,889.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 272, line 397.587:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $854,300 to finance projects and facilities of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, specifically for the Georgia Military College Preparatory School, through the issuance of not more than $10,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  This appropriation does not fully fund the total cost of this project.  Therefore, due to limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan and the reasons stated above, I veto this language (page 272, line 397.587) in the provisions relative to Section 49, General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $854,300.

 

Section 49, pertaining to the General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund, page 273, line 397.705:

 

This language authorizes the appropriation of $170,860 to finance projects and facilities for the Department of Agriculture, specifically to construct and renovate all Farmers' Markets, through the issuance of not more than $2,000,000 in principal amount of General Obligation Debt for 20 years.  In consideration of other priority items as expressed by the General Assembly and limitations on additional debt contained in the state's debt management plan this project is not recommended.  Therefore, I veto this language (page 273, line 397.705) in the provisions relative to Section 49 General Obligation Debt Sinking Fund and the state general funds of $170,860.

 

Section 50, pertaining to Federal Funds, page 274:

 

This language essentially limits the application of federal funds received in excess of those contemplated in the Appropriations Act to supplant state funds.  This language limits the state's ability to effectively utilize additional federal funds for highest priority needs as they become available throughout the fiscal year.  Similar language has been previously vetoed, and I veto this language in Section 50.


In addition to the vetoed items, Governor Perdue also issued messages instructing agencies to disregard instructions regarding spending that do not constitute appropriations.  HB 95 is an appropriations bill, not a general law bill.  An appropriation consists of a recipient, a purpose, and an amount.  Language added by the General Assembly in addition to these three criteria is not part of an appropriation and is non-binding.  By adding additional criteria the General Assembly engages in trying to authorize general law in an appropriation bill.  In such circumstances the added language is not operative and may be disregarded.  Passages of non-binding purpose language to disregard are included below.

 

Non-Binding Purpose Language to Disregard

Section 17, pertaining to the Department of Community Health, page 71, item 77:

 

The General Assembly seeks to set limits on the employer contribution rate for the teachers' health benefit plan and the state employees' health benefit plan for Fiscal Year 2008.  This language dictates a matter within the general law discretion of the Department and is therefore null and void.  The Department is authorized to establish employer contribution rates in accordance with the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 21: pertaining to the Department of Early Care and Learning, page 90, item 106:

 

The General Assembly seeks to limit the number of pre-K slots in the purpose statement of the Pre-Kindergarten program by inclusion of the following language: “This appropriation shall provide funds for no more than 77,775 Pre-K slots.”  If it is the intention of the General Assembly to limit participation in the voluntary Pre-Kindergarten program, then this is a matter for the general law and should not be accomplished through an appropriation.  This added language dictates a matter within the general law discretion of the Department and is therefore null and void.

 

Section 27: pertaining to the Department of Human Resources, page 132, item 185:

 

The General Assembly seeks to establish matching rates in the After School Care program through inclusion of the following language: “ … and earn a 1:2 matching rate for contributed Maintenance of Effort (MOE) funds.”  While these are valuable metrics to aspire to, this requirement should not be established through an appropriation.  This added language dictates a matter within the general law discretion of the Department and is therefore null and void.

 

Section 27: pertaining to the Department of Human Resources, page 141, item 194:

 

The General Assembly seeks to establish matching rates in the Departmental Administration program and allocate a portion of TANF block grants through inclusion of the following language: “ … provided that at least $6,000,000 in Temporary Assistance to Needy Family block grants be distributed to qualified food banks in exchange for a 1:3 Maintenance of Effort match.”  While these are valuable metrics to aspire to, this requirement should not be established through an appropriation.  This added language dictates a matter within the general law discretion of the Department and is therefore null and void.

Certain language contained in this appropriation bill is included for informational purposes and thus does not constitute an appropriation.  Because the language is not an appropriation, it is non-binding, and the Governor may authorize the agencies to utilize those funds in accordance with the overall purpose of the appropriation and within the general law authority of the agency.  Passages of non-binding information language to disregard are included below.


Non-Binding Information Language to Disregard


Section 16, pertaining to the Department of Community Affairs, page 40, line 55.7:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate $100,000 for the sixteen Regional Development Centers within the Coordinated Planning program.  This additional funding is needed to support the Department's efforts to prepare for the 2010 census.  The Department is authorized to utilize the $100,000 for the Local Update of Census Addresses initiative or other priorities consistent with the stated purpose of the program.

 

Section 16, pertaining to the Department of Community Affairs, page 61, line 66.6:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate $250,000 from the Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund (DDRLF) to the City of Richland for an emergency water system within the State Economic Development program.  The DDRLF leverages matching funds from the Woodruff Foundation to the Georgia Cities Foundation and is intended to promote the revitalization of Georgia's downtowns.  The General Assembly's allocation to the City of Richland would alter both the purpose and the geographic availability of the DDRLF.  The Department is authorized to utilize the $250,000 for the Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund in accordance with its original purpose and the stated purpose of the program.

 

Section 17, pertaining to the Department of Community Health, page 65, line 71.5:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate $300,000 within the Health Care Access and Improvement program to implement a regional Health Information Technology pilot partnership with the Medical College of Georgia.  This allocation is contained within $1,000,000 added for the Health Information Technology Pilot which is a partnership with the federal government and is intended to promote transparency in health care information on a statewide basis.  The Department is authorized to utilize the full appropriation for the stated purpose of the Health Care Access and Improvement program.

 

Section 18, pertaining to the Department of Corrections, page 75, line 86.2:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate $1,422,224 within the County Jail Subsidy program to provide an increase in the county jail subsidy from $20 to $25 per day.  Current projections indicate that the increased funding of $1,422,224 will be needed to pay the current rate of $20 per day.  The Department is authorized to utilize the full appropriation for the stated purpose of the County Jail Subsidy program. 

 

Section 18, pertaining to the Department of Corrections, page 80, line 91.7:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate an additional $500,000 for the expansion of County Correctional Institutions to house state inmates in rural Georgia within the Offender Management program.  The Department is authorized to utilize $221,216 of these funds to offset the cut to this program reflected in item 91.6 and to utilize the remaining funds of $278,784 to fund the most effective and efficient expansions of County Correctional Institutions as determined on a statewide basis.

 

Section 18, pertaining to the Department of Corrections, page 83, line 96.16:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate $100,000 for the purchase of equipment in the inmate construction program in the State Prisons program.  However, this funding is needed for the utility shortfall in state prisons.  The Department is authorized to direct the additional $100,000 to utilities in the State Prisons program.

 

Section 21, pertaining to the Department of Early Care and Learning, page 90, lines 106.5 and 106.6:

 

The General Assembly seeks to establish a cap on the number of slots available this fall for the Pre-Kindergarten program at 77,775 and utilize $2,103,633 in lottery funds for a 3% operating increase for providers.  Current projections indicate the need for slots this fall will be at least 78,000.  The Department is authorized to increase the lottery funds available for pre-K slots to $12,628,598 in order to provide for necessary slots.  The Department may use any remaining lottery funds to provide an operating increase for providers.

 

Section 22, pertaining to the Department of Economic Development, page 91, line 108.5:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $2,000,000 for the City of Gainesville for the demolition and renovation of a parking deck within the Business Recruitment and Expansion program.  Funds appropriated for individual communities for special projects should be contained in Local Assistance Grants in the Department of Community Affairs budget.  In the interest of maximizing the return on investment for all Georgians, the Department is authorized to utilize these funds toward their international marketing and recruitment efforts or other priorities consistent with stated purpose of the program and the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 22, pertaining to the Department of Economic Development, page 94, item 114.12:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $2,500,000 for the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center within the Tourism program.  The Department is authorized to utilize these funds for the continued development of the Resaca Battlefield project or other priorities in accordance with the purpose of the Tourism program and the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 23, pertaining to the Department of Education, page 100, lines 125.2, 125.3 and 125.4:

 

The General Assembly provided an additional $1,125,000 for the Communities in Schools program for a variety of purposes.  Improving graduation rates is a priority for the state.  In order to ensure that the state contracts with the most cost-effective and results-oriented programs available, pursuant to Op. Att'y Gen. 73-132, the Department is authorized to utilize competitive procurement procedures for the full appropriation of $2,445,623 providing alternative education programs throughout the state, bringing community resources into schools to help students stay in school and better prepare for life.

 

Section 23, pertaining to the Department of Education, page 102, lines 129.1:

 

The General Assembly provided $1,590,857 in state general funds for the Foreign Language program.  In the past, funding in this program has been limited to only 29 schools.  The Department is authorized to utilize this funding to provide approximately $1200 to each elementary school for foreign language media materials.

 

Section 23, pertaining to the Department of Education, page 111, lines 154.4:

 

The General Assembly seeks to allocate $354,075 within the Testing program for subsidizing Advanced Placement exams for private school students on the same basis as public school students.  Current projections indicate the expenditures under this program will be needed to meet the needs of public school students.  The Department is authorized to utilize this funding to meet the needs of public school students consistent with the stated purpose of the program.

 

Section 27, pertaining to the Department of Human Resources, multiple items:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark funds for specific vendors, serving specific geographic locations, in several parts of the Department's budget.  Pursuant to Op. Att'y Gen. 73-132 and the general law powers of the budget unit, the Department is authorized to utilize appropriate procurement procedures to ensure that program services intended by the General Assembly are provided in a fair, equitable, efficient and effective manner:

 

            Page 126; item 177.5

            Page 126; item 177.7

            Page 128; item 180.11

            Page 134; item 187.10

            Page 138; item 193.9

            Page 138; item 193.11

            Page 147; item 205.1

            Page 146, item 202.6

            Page 150; item 210.6

 

Qualified vendors named in these earmarks are not prohibited from participating in the Department's procurement process.

 

Section 27, pertaining to the Department of Human Resources, page 128 and 134, items 180.7, 180.8, and 187.6:

 

The General Assembly seeks to instruct the Department as to the net increase in the unduplicated count of recipients in the Mental Retardation Waiver Program in the Adult Development Disabilities Service program and the Child and Adolescent Development Disabilities program.  Although this language is for information purposes only, it gives the appearance of meeting additional needs without the necessary funds being appropriated.  Therefore, this language is stricken due to lack of adequate funding and the attempt to dictate a matter within the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 27, pertaining to the Department of Human Resources, page 155, item 218.7:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $721,000 within the Support for Needy Families-Family Assistance program for the expansion, renovation and relocation of specific DFACS offices.  This seeks to circumvent the policies and procedures of the State Property Officer and the Department to identify the highest-need projects on a statewide basis.  The Department is authorized to utilize these funds in accordance with its general law powers and the purpose of the program.

 

Section 27, pertaining to the Department of Labor, page 180, item 256.8:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $50,000 for the Albany Advocacy Resource Center.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Vocational Rehabilitation program, the Department is authorized to utilize these funds in accordance with its general law powers and the stated purpose of the program.

 

Section 27, pertaining to the Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority, page 192, item 275.5:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $50,000 within Payments to Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority for the pre-design for construction of the amphitheater.  The long-term sustainability of the amphitheater has not been determined nor have operating funds been identified.  The Authority is authorized to utilize these funds to replace obsolete equipment or other priorities in accordance with its general law powers and the purpose of the program.

 

Section 31, pertaining to the Department of Labor, page 180, item 256.9:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $167,000 within the Vocational Rehabilitation program for the Hinesville center for the Georgia Center for the Hearing Impaired.  The Department is authorized to utilize these funds to ensure that services for the hearing impaired are equitably distributed across the state and for other priorities in accordance with the purpose of the Vocational Rehabilitation program and the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 34, pertaining to the Department of Natural Resources, page 191, item 273.13:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $400,000 for Waynesboro Field Trails Stable at the Di-Land Plantation WMA within the Wildlife Resources program.  As the need for this project does not require such an appropriation amount, the Department is authorized to utilize $100,000 of these funds for such project and utilize the remainder for other priorities in accordance with the purpose of the Wildlife Resources program and the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 37, pertaining to the Department of Public Safety, page 200, item 290.9:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $250,000 for the North Central Law Enforcement Academy within the Field Offices and Services program.  Increases for law enforcement academies should be managed on a fair and equitable basis for all academies statewide.  The Department is authorized to utilize these funds in accordance with its general law powers and the program's stated purpose.

 

Section 37, pertaining to the Department of Public Safety, page 200, item 290.10:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $118,700 for training associated with the implementation of HB 1059 within the Field Offices and Services program.  This is not a function of the Department of Public Safety Field Offices.  The Department is authorized to utilize these funds in accordance with its general law powers and the program's stated purpose.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 210, item 304.4:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $80,000 for the Formosan Termite project within the Cooperative Extension Program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Cooperative Extension Program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, page 214, item 313.3:

 

The General Assembly seeks to direct the expenditure of $350,000 in tobacco settlement funds within the Payments to Georgia Cancer Coalition program to implement a pilot program to promote smoking cessation by use of appropriate prescription smoking cessation medication along with counseling and to submit a State Plan Amendment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to obtain approval for matching funds to cover such medications.  The Quality Information Exchange is a higher priority for the Georgia Cancer Coalition.  Therefore, the Board of Regents and the Cancer Coalition are authorized to use these funds for the Quality Information Exchange or other priorities in accordance with the purpose of the Payments to Georgia Cancer Coalition program.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 214, item 313.8:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $750,000 for the Georgia Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cell Core Facility within the Payments to Georgia Cancer Coalition program.  While I support the funding of the Facility, unfortunately this language removes funding from on-going commitments to imminent clinicians and scholars pursuing cancer research.  The Board of Regents and the Georgia Cancer Coalition are authorized to utilize the full appropriation for the program's stated purpose.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 215, item 314.6:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $19,000 for the Three Rivers Regional Library in Glynn County within the Public Libraries program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Public Libraries program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 216, item 315.7:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $180,000 for the Georgia Water Planning and Policy Center at Albany State University within the Public Service/Special Funding Initiatives program.  These funds were eliminated in Fiscal Year 2007 due to audit findings at the Center.  The Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general powers afforded to the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 216, item 315.8:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $45,000 for the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars within the Public Service/Special Funding Initiative program.  Under the authority of Op. Att'y Gen. 73-132 funds may not be directly appropriated to a private contractor.  The Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 216, item 315.9:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $150,000 for business plans to support the incorporation efforts of Chattahoochee Hills and the City of South Fulton within the Public Service/Special Funding Initiatives program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Public Service/Special Funding Initiatives program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, page 218, item 320.12:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $100,000 for the Fort Valley Cooperative Energy program within the Teaching program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project, the availability of private funds to support this project, and other priorities within the Teaching program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 219, item 320.13:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $750,000 for outdoor education at Middle Georgia College within the Teaching program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Teaching program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 219, item 320.15:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $75,000 for roof repairs, office supplies and furniture at the Cordele campus of Darton College within the Teaching program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Teaching program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 219, item 320.16:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $100,000 for a Physical Education addition at Kennesaw State University within the Teaching program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Teaching program, the Board is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 39, pertaining to the Board of Regents, University System of Georgia, page 219, item 320.18:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $125,000 for Valdosta State University for administrative costs associated with the creation of a charter school within the Teaching program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Teaching program, the Board of Regents is authorized to expend these funds in accordance with other priorities consistent with the program's stated purpose and the general law powers of the Board of Regents.

 

Section 41, pertaining to the Secretary of State, page 230, item 339.8:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $50,000 for the Silver-Haired legislature in the Administration program.  Due to anticipated legal expenses, the Secretary of State is authorized to utilize these funds for legal expenses or other priorities in accordance with the Administration program and the general law powers of the Secretary of State.

 

Section 45, pertaining to the Department of Technical and Adult Education, page 246, item 376.6:

 

The General Assembly seeks to provide $7,162,483 beyond earned formula funds within the Technical Education program.  Due to declining enrollment and excess capacity at certain locations, the Department is authorized to utilize these funds for minor repairs and renovations or in accordance with other priorities in the Technical Education program and the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 45, pertaining to the Department of Technical and Adult Education, page 247, item 376.14:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $700,000 for roof repairs at the Moultrie Technical College Career Academy within the Technical Education program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this project and other priorities within the Technical Education program, the Department is authorized to utilize these funds for minor repairs and renovations or in accordance with other priorities in the Technical Education program and the general law powers of the Department. 

 

Section 45, pertaining to the Department of Technical and Adult Education, page 247, item 376.16:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark $100,000 for pre-design of a college and technical facility in Catoosa County within the Technical Education program.  Due to the unspecified need associated with this change item and other priorities within the Technical Education program, the Department of Technical and Adult Education is authorized to utilize these funds for minor repairs and renovations or in accordance with other priorities in the Technical Education program and the general law powers of the Department.

 

Section 46, pertaining to the Department of Transportation, page 255, item 388.2:

 

The General Assembly seeks to earmark existing toll revenue for construction of a sound barrier along the south end of GA 400 within the Payments to the State Road and Tollway Authority program.  This language conflicts with the program purpose.  The Authority is authorized to utilize their existing toll revenue in accordance with the program purpose and the general law powers of the Authority.

 

Salary Adjustments

The General Assembly seeks to allocate funding for pay raises for specific job classifications within state government.  These allocations are inconsistent with recommendations of the Merit System and/or unfair to individuals in similar and equally critical job classifications in other agencies.

With respect to the following items, the Department of Human Resources is authorized to utilize funds earmarked in the following items for general purposes consistent with the program purpose, the Department's general law powers, and the rules of the Merit System Board of Personnel Administration. 

 

Section 27, pertaining to the Department of Human Resources;

Items 177.8, 180.12, 181.5, 182.8, 183.6, 184.2, 187.12, 189.7, 194.18, 195.5, 200.7, 208.8, 209.6, 210.7, 211.5, 213.6, and 220.4

 

With respect to the following items, the affected state entities are authorized to utilize funding in accordance with the purpose of the program and the general authority regarding pay increases provided to agency heads under the Merit System Board of Personnel Administration.

 

Section 18 pertaining to the Department of Corrections;

Items 85.2, 87.2, 88.2, 89.2, 90.2, 91.2, 92.2, 94.2, 95.2, 96.2, and 97.2

 

Section 29, pertaining to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation;

Items 231.2, 232.2, 233.2, 234.2, 235.2, 236.2, 238.2, and 239.2

 

Section 30, pertaining to the Department of Juvenile Justice;

Items 241.2, 242.2, 243.2, 244.2, and 245.2

 

Section 34, pertaining to the Department of Natural Resources;

Items 270.2 and 273.2

 

Section 35, pertaining to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles;

Items 279.2, 280.2, 281.2, and 282.2

 

Section 37, pertaining to the Department of Public Safety;

Items 286.2, 288.2, 289.2, 290.2, 291.2, 292.2, 293.2, 296.2

 

With respect to the following items, the Department of Public Safety is authorized to utilize funds earmarked in the following items for general purposes consistent with the program purpose, the Department's general law powers, and the rules of the Merit System Board of Personnel Administration. 

 

Section 53, pertaining to Salary Adjustments, paragraph 10

 

Section 37, pertaining to the Department of Public Safety;

Item 290.11