Force Lawmakers To Plan Ahead

Published: Oct 12, 2006

Florida lawmakers, facing term limits, have few political incentives to plan very far ahead. By approving Amendment 1, voters can give legislators a shove toward fiscal responsibility.

The amendment makes a number of changes, all of which are beneficial.

A limit would be set on how much revenue from one-time sources can be tapped to pay ongoing expenses. No more than 3 percent of operating funds could come from nonrecurring sources, a change that would reduce the temptation to play budget games.

The proposal also would require the preparation of a long-range financial plan that puts the state budget and revenue estimates in one document, ensuring that spending is based on realistic numbers.

Most importantly, the amendment would establish a government efficiency task force that would seek to cut costs and improve efficiency. Members would be appointed by the governor, Senate president and speaker of the House.

Politicians like to talk about running government like a business, but they rarely do. Amendment 1 would force Tallahassee to be more disciplined in planning for the future.

For improved accountability in the Legislature, The Tribune urges citizens to vote yes on Amendment 1.