Kemp Signs Amended FY 2021 Budget

On Monday, Gov. Kemp signed the $1.2 billion amended budget for FY 2021. The General Assembly passed the bill, HB 80, last week.

The amended FY 2021 increases state spending by $654 million, bringing the total state spend to $26.5 billion. The remainder of the budget comes from other sources, predominately federal funds. In total, the state will spend $53.7 billion in the current fiscal year.

“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,” Kemp said in a release. “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,” he added.

With the amended FY 2021 budget out of the way, the “big budget” for next fiscal year is up next. FY 2022 begins on July 1.