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Gov. Edwards signs vital state projects funding bill

Posted at 4:17 PM, Jun 06, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-06 17:17:07-04

(PRESS RELEASE) Gov. John Bel Edwards has signed legislation that provides funding for vital state construction projects while exercising his authority to line-item veto 40 sections of the bill.

Upon taking office, Gov. Edwards lead a reform of the antiquated, bloated capital outlay program, eliminating over-budgeting and prioritizing projects for a realistic approach given the state’s fiscal challenges at hand. The governor’s line-item vetoes result in a more focused Capital Outlay program leveraging available funds in the areas where they can be utilized for maximum effect.

“Our fiscal challenges are holding us back from the strategic investments that we need to be making in critical infrastructure projects around the state; however, this year’s construction funding bill does present a meaningful opportunity to make major infrastructure improvements in every region of Louisiana,” said Gov. Edwards. “I promised to reform the way we manage our Capital Outlay program so that it is fair, realistic and strategic in nature. It is the level of honesty that our people deserve, and the strategic investments that we are able to make through this year’s program will make much-needed improvements that directly benefit Louisianans around our state.”

Below will you find the governor’s line-item veto letter.