Georgia Constitution Practice Exam

What does the Georgia Constitution require for legislative acts concerning financial appropriations?

1. They are permanent until revoked

2. They must align with federally mandated budgets

3. They must expire at fiscal year-end, barring exceptions

4. They can only be approved with public referendum

The correct answer is: They must expire at fiscal year-end, barring exceptions

The Georgia Constitution stipulates that legislative acts concerning financial appropriations must typically expire at the end of the fiscal year, with certain exceptions allowed. This provision ensures that appropriations are reviewed and re-evaluated annually, promoting accountability and oversight in state budgeting. By requiring appropriations to have a limited duration, the Constitution encourages the legislature to make sure that spending is necessary and aligns with the state’s current financial situation and priorities. Other options present alternative scenarios that do not accurately reflect the requirements of the Georgia Constitution. The concept of appropriations being permanent until revoked contradicts the need for annual review, while aligning appropriations with federally mandated budgets is not a specific requirement of the state Constitution. Additionally, the idea that appropriations can only be approved with a public referendum does not adhere to the process outlined for state budgeting and appropriations. This makes the correct choice, which highlights the need for annual reassessment and potential expiration of appropriations, consistent with sound financial management principles.