Assemblyman Bob Huff Introduces Zero-Based Budgeting Bill

Assemblyman Bob Huff has introduced legislation to require state agencies to utilize a zero-based budgeting method.

“Our current $16 billion state budget deficit allows us to challenge our traditional way of budgeting, which many believe leads to wasteful spending habits. Policymakers assume the current year’s expenditure level is justified, when it may not be.” Assemblyman Huff said. “Under AB 1838, the state will be able to determine whether we’re spending too much or too little on certain public agencies and activities.”

Normally, a state agency creates its annual budget by starting with the current spending level as the base, and adding to that. A zero-based budgeting approach scrutinizes an agency’s activities by starting with a base of zero dollars and adding the money necessary to carry out operations. The spending levels would be approved by the Department of Finance.

AB 1838 is currently awaiting a hearing before the Assembly Budget Committee.