In most states, the balanced budget requirements are unclear because of the lack of specific state compliance, enforcement provisions, and explicit language. Although 22 states have enforcement provisions that emphasize their importance, the expectation that the state budget is balanced is the most important factor in maintaining a balanced budget (Ncsl.org, 2010). State political culture reinforces the budget requirements. My understanding of this journal is that state budgets are very important. Balancing the budget is a rigorous task for many states. The requirements for balancing the state budget varies from state to state. Before reading this journal, I had no knowledge of state budget requirements. After reading this journal, I am unsure of how the process works. I now have a profound respect for the job of a policymaker and governor. In Alabama, if the treasurer lacks the money to pay the claims against the appropriations, then the treasurer is subject to a five thousand dollar fine and a two-year prison term.
In most states, the balanced budget requirements are unclear because of the lack of specific state compliance, enforcement provisions, and explicit language. Although 22 states have enforcement provisions that emphasize their importance, the expectation that the state budget is balanced is the most important factor in maintaining a balanced budget (Ncsl.org, 2010). State political culture reinforces the budget requirements. My understanding of this journal is that state budgets are very important. Balancing the budget is a rigorous task for many states. The requirements for balancing the state budget varies from state to state. Before reading this journal, I had no knowledge of state budget requirements. After reading this journal, I am unsure of how the process works. I now have a profound respect for the job of a policymaker and governor. In Alabama, if the treasurer lacks the money to pay the claims against the appropriations, then the treasurer is subject to a five thousand dollar fine and a two-year prison term.