The roughly $100 million in budget vetoes represents less than one-half of one percent of the total budget. Every reasonable legislator should be willing to sustain these vetoes.

Year after year legislators try to put pet projects, political favors and pork in the budget hoping that the taxpayers will foot the bill. Unfortunately, this year is no different. From money that would go to a House member’s nonprofit (Veto 41), to lighting for an athletic field (Veto 64), to a very successful festival (Veto 60), visitor centers and a boat ramp – pork is alive and well in the budget.

Sadly, the irresponsible budgeting does not stop there. Veto 21 highlights the practice of using non-reoccurring money in the General Fund budget. There is no guarantee that this $50 million will be available next year and to use it for reoccurring programs is reckless.

Responsible spending has been a focus of the South Carolina Club for Growth since our founding. Votes from this year’s budget veto message will be a part of the SC Club for Growth’s 2013 Scorecard.

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