Even with record surplus, Kemp tells state agencies to hold the line

Despite a record surplus, billions of dollars in federal aid and a growing economy, Gov. Brian Kemp is telling most state agencies not to request any extra money to spend in the upcoming year.

In his annual instructions to agency leaders, Kemp’s budget director, Kelly Farr, said the state’s economy gained ground last year after fears of a major downturn during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As we continue to see increasing economic activity, strong consumer demand and continued unemployment declines, we expect our economy to see solid growth through the current fiscal year and into fiscal year 2023 (which starts July 1),” he wrote state agency directors.

“As our economy and our state grows, so too do demands of state government as we strive to meet the health, safety and education needs of our citizens,” Farr said.

Read more: https://www.ajc.com/politics/even-with-record-surplus-kemp-tells-state-agencies-to-hold-the-line/QMPCKX7ENZAJ3DSOYLNMYBGM3A/