Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding Today’s Budget Signing

When I submitted my budget and addressed both Chambers of the General Assembly earlier this year, I outlined the challenges confronting our state and my vision for its future,” Governor Chafee said. “My priorities for the fiscal year 2012 budget were clear: an honest and balanced budget that reduces structural deficits; investment in education by funding of the K-12 funding formula; reversing the trend of cuts to higher education; reforming Rhode Island’s approach to transportation and infrastructure funding and ending the state’s reliance on borrowing; and supporting our cities and towns through municipal aid.

I have worked closely with the legislature, particularly the Speaker, Senate President, and Finance Committee Chairmen, to ensure that the budget begins to address our most serious challenges,” Governor Chafee continued. “I am pleased that the legislation I signed into law today includes many of my priorities.

I am confident that the General Assembly joins me in recognizing the severity of the fiscal challenges we face, and I am satisfied that this budget is the result of positive collaboration and working together,” Governor Chafee concluded. “This budget process began what I hope will be a new period of cooperation with the legislature. I look forward to continuing to work with the General Assembly when we gather in the fall for a special session to achieve a comprehensive solution to our state’s pension crisis.