Another $400 million budget hole looms

“What we’re going to do right now is just kind of step back and see if something won’t come out of this, that some form of legislation will still pass,” said Rep. Tommy Benton when asked to check out the state’s stance. “If it doesn’t, we will see what needs to be done. I couldn’t find anyone who wanted to make any other comment on that legislation.”

Thirty states included the funds in their budgets based on an expectation that Congress would approve the extension.

The measure is stalled in the Senate, where it lacks three votes for ending a filibuster designed to prevent its passage. If three Senators agree to quit supporting the filibuster, problem solved. If not, the nation’s states will see some serious budget holes to be filled.

It is of particular concern for Georgia school systems which, already hammered by repeated funding cuts, are just entering the new fiscal year.
“Where do you find $400 million?” asked Commerce superintendent of schools James “Mac” McCoy. “I think the state programs are pretty much cut to the quick.”

Since education accounts for 56 percent of the state’s spending, it would likely see a hefty share of a $400 million budget reduction should the state choose that route. That would add more pressure to school systems already struggling.

“When we did training couple weeks ago, Dr. Puckett of the Georgia School Board Association said GSBA is anticipating 40-50 school systems being in deficit budgets this year,” said McCoy. “I don’t know what’s going to happen. Honestly, I don’t know.”