Senate debates bill allowing RI gov to trim budget

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Rhode Island Gov. Don Carcieri would be able to cut state spending to avoid deficits under legislation that the Senate will debate this week.

The proposal before the Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday would permit Carcieri to trim state spending if state budget deficits are projected. The governor would have to notify legislative leaders 10 days before making any cuts.

If adopted, the bill would represent an expansion of the governor’s powers.

While Carcieri can fire state employees and pressure his department heads to curb spending, he cannot take money away from branches of state government.

A 2008 study by the National Association of State Budget Officers found that governors in 38 states have at least limited powers to cut state spending without legislative approval.