Gov. Butch Otter
Idaho Gov. Butch Otter says a new report comparing budget planning strategies among all 50 states shows that Idaho’s recent legislative session was successful.
Otter says the report from the National Governors Association and National Association of State Budget Officials reflects the state’s focus on growing the economy, not the budget, and maintaining a stable tax and regulatory climate.
Idaho state economist Mike Ferguson says his most recent tax revenue forecast in December, which was higher than the projections lawmakers used to set state spending, may have been too optimistic. Ferguson expects state revenues in the current budget year, which ends June 30, will be close to the $2.28 billion lawmakers used.
Every state in the country except Vermont is required to balance its budget every year. The report showed that 18 states balanced their budget by raising taxes and fees, with increases nationwide totaling a net $3.1 billion. (Idaho Reporter.com)
