Patrick seeks emergency budget powers

BOSTON – Gov. Deval L. Patrick, faced with the need to make yet more spending cuts to avert a shortfall this fiscal year, yesterday filed legislation that would expand his budget authority.
With state tax revenue continuing to lag expectations and demand for services continuing to rise, the administration says another $1 billion in cuts are needed to avert a shortfall this fiscal year.
“A budget gap of the magnitude we face will require tough choices that impact individuals, families and businesses across the commonwealth,” Patrick said in a statement late yesterday. “It’s necessary for us to have everything on the table when making these decisions.”
The state already has made deep cuts this fiscal year. In October – facing a revenue shortfall then estimated at $1.5 billion for the fiscal year that ends June 30 (READ MORE) – Patrick slashed spending on economic development, environmental and educational programs, among others; reduced contributions to the state pension fund; and eliminated 1,000 jobs. (READ MORE). He also tapped into the state’s rainy-day fund and looked for ways to boost tax revenue.
At the time, many agencies and departments outside the executive branch voluntarily reduced their budgets. But the governor’s budget-cutting authority normally extends only to agencies in the executive branch.
The expanded “9C” authority Patrick is requesting would give him emergency power over the budgets of the Mass. Legislature and Judiciary; the district attorneys, sheriffs and other constitutional officers; and local aid.
News and information from the Mass. Governor’s Office are available at www.mass.gov.