Truth and Integrity in State Budgeting

Abstract Truth & Integrity in State Budgeting Volcker Alliance Phase IV This research project is for Phase IV of the Volcker Alliance’s national research project regarding the truth and integrity of state budgeting. The research involves the compilation of state financial data published in public records covering state fiscal and budgeting practices. Included in the data collection process are budget adjustments, budgeting practices, revenue forecasting, one-time budget adjustment actions, pension and OPEB funding, education funding, rainy day and reserve funds as well as disclosure practices regarding infrastructure funding and deferred maintenance. Activities to be performed in association with this work will include: 1) completing responses from 5 states regarding research questions covering fiscal years FY2019 and FY2020, 2) verifying the data and following up with respondents to insure accuracy, 3) filtering the data to facilitate cross state analysis, 4) drafting summaries of research results and 5) providing such additional data as may be appropriate to reflect the current and near term financial status of the 5 states, and 6) submit the research results to the Volcker Alliance per the contract schedule and in the prescribed format. The project also involves presenting research results at relevant regional and national meetings.