BUDGET DIGEST OVERHAUL

In recent years numerous organizations from across the state in all 55 counties have been the recipient of the Budget Digest, a process where 501-c(3) organizations can submit applications to receive state appropriations. The process to date has been very simple, where representatives receive applications from respective groups in their home districts; one page applications that include the purpose for the request and their federal tax identification number. The applications are then submitted to the Committee on Finance, attached with a list of priorities ranking projects of interest on a 1- 10 scale. The applications are reviewed by a bi-partisan committee made up of members of both Houses. Benefactors of budget digest monies typically have included, but not limited to, civic organizations, senior organizations, schools, and municipal governments.
To date the process has been met by mixed reviews , but well received by the beneficiaries of budget digest monies in all counties; that being said, it appears the process may see significant changes and/or eliminated completely. Speaker Kiss will be meeting with Senate President Tomblin and legislators in the weeks to come gathering feedback in an attempt to determine the fate of budget digests.