Governor Brian Kemp, along with Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan and other legislative leaders, met yesterday to sign the amended fiscal year 2021 budget.
“Today, I am signing a budget that reflects our values as a state. By restoring education funding, making key investments in expanding internet access, prioritizing public health, giving 57,000 state employees a well-deserved bonus, and spurring economic development in every corner of our state, this budget ensures Georgia will continue being the best state to live, work, and raise a family. As other states look to furlough workers, cut essential services, or raise taxes, we acted early in the pandemic to budget conservatively and protect both lives and livelihoods. I thank Lt. Governor Duncan, Speaker Ralston, members of the General Assembly, and the House and Senate budget staffs who worked closely with my office to get this budget across the finish line. By working together, we will make sure Georgia’s best days are still ahead.” – Governor Brian Kemp
“While other states continue to make budget cuts, or are preparing for looming deficits, Georgia is a testament that states can prioritize both lives and livelihoods. This amended budget not only restores critical funding, but provides a foundation for continued growth – even in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Georgians should be proud of the teamwork their state leaders exhibited to get this budget to the finish line. I want to thank Chairman Tillery, and the Senate Budget staff, who worked tirelessly to ensure a conservative, balanced budget.” – Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan
“Working together, we have arrived at an amended budget that prioritizes the state’s response to COVID-19 and helping our people through this pandemic. We have allocated additional funding to the Department of Public Health for more staff and technology. We have added more than half a billion dollars to public schools, and we have provided teachers and many state employees with a $1,000 bonus to reward their efforts. With our AAA-bond rating and strong reserve fund, the nation’s #1 state for business continues to budget conservatively, and we can be proud that our budget reflects our shared commitment to keep Georgia healthy and growing. I want to thank Governor Kemp, Lt. Governor Duncan and the members of the Senate for working with Chairman Terry England and the rest of our House members on this budget.” – Speaker David Ralston
