Georgia’s coffers have an overflow of cash. As of October 2023, the state of Georgia had roughly $16 billion in general fund reserves.
Out of that number, $10.7 billion was not earmarked and could be used in a variety of areas. The multibillion-dollar surplus is likely to keep growing if funds are not allocated.
On Monday, Gov. Brian Kemp announced he would give a $1,000 year-end bonus to state, university and public school employees. The governor also proposed a permanent $104 million yearly allocation for school security.
For the first day of “Closer Look’s” two-day series, “Overflow: Examining Georgia’s $11 Billion Surplus,” show host Rose Scott spoke with a Georgia lawmaker and leaders from fiscal watchdog and consumer advocacy groups.
The guests discussed how they think Kemp should spend the surplus dollars to help Georgians.
