As the state works toward a budget for the next year, some lawmakers say they need a target for how much money is available.
One idea is if the state had a revenue estimate in place, drafting a balanced budget would be an easier process. Without one, budget negotiators say they are in the dark when it comes to how much is available to spend.
A revenue estimate is already required by state law – but House Republican Leader Jim Durkin says for the past few years, no official amount was agreed upon. He’s proposing the estimate that comes from the legislature’s economic forecasting arm.
Durkin says lawmakers spend hours listening to agencies talk about their budget needs and need a framework.
“I must ask, what is the purpose of appropriation hearings if our members don’t know how much they can or should appropriate. How is this common practice acceptable?"
The Governor’s budget office also presents a revenue estimate, but it has sometimes varied from others that are offered up. Another plan announced would set an annual spending cap for state government. That would require changing the Illinois constitution.
