Thursday, October 19, 2006
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Receives Highest National Grade for Smart Spending, Savings
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt was the only governor to receive an “A” grade on the CATO Institute’s biennial fiscal report card. The report awards the highest grades to those who have reduced spending and cut taxes.
“We have put an end to tax and spend philosophies of old to make room for responsible spending, improved efficiency and enhanced customer service,” Blunt said. “Whether it is increased education funding or new jobs, the benefits of responsible government are stacking up for Missourians.”
Despite facing a $1.1 billion deficit his first year in office, the governor’s careful consideration for every taxpayer dollar has led to the first real budget surplus in Missouri in years. Blunt and state agencies have reined in spending by improving processes and eliminating waste. This is the first year in almost a decade that the state budget includes fewer than 60,000 employees. Since January 2005, the state reduced office space by 220,000 square feet, saved $3 million in annual rent, and made $1.3 million selling underutilized property. Eliminating waste, fraud and abuse primarily in the Medicaid system saved taxpayers another $139.7 million. Since taking office, the governor has increased funding for Missouri public schools by nearly a third of a billion dollars.
Blunt has successfully introduced a new and better way of getting things done. He has worked diligently to make government responsible for every dollar it spends. He has reduced the size of state government, aligned spending with Missouri values, and made innovative and bold investments to protect Missouri’s prosperity for future generations.
Out of 46 governors reviewed, Blunt received the highest grade. Nine governors received an F grade. The full report is available at: http://www.cato.org/.
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