Across the Board Cuts Reflect Poor Leadership

The South Carolina Budget and Control Board's decision to cut all state agency budgets by 4 percent is yet another example of government of expediency.

Hard to imagine any thoughtful process which would have led to the conclusion that all state agencies provide comparably essential services. Take a look at the list for yourself and decide http://sc.gov/Portal/OrgList.aspx

Some, such as the Board of Cosemtology, were scheduled to sunseted in the 1980s, but remain due to bobtailing legislation and special considerations. Meanwhile other agencies, such as the state Fire Academy receives the same level of reduction in budget. The cut will also cut another $85 million from the state's public schools.

The cuts also mean more problems for colleges, health care and prisons. In a little more than a year, more than $1.3 billion has been slashed from spending as the recession pounded tax collections.

The Board is made up of the Governor, the Treasurer, the Comptroller General, the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and the Chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee.

These members of the budget and control board have had months to consider which agency budgets to trim and by how much. To make across the board cuts reflects a lack of wisdom and leadership at a time we so badly need direction.

If you are one to express your opinion and agree we expect better from this board, let them know. Here is there contact information:

SC Budget and Control Board
Box 12444 · Columbia, SC 29211
(803) 734-2320 | FAX:(803) 734-2117