Porter comments on dismal monthly revenue report

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement regarding today’s revenue report, which is $183.7 million below forecast: 

“Unfortunately, this is another dismal revenue report that’s well below forecast. Revenue was down in August, and that trend has continued with our revenues down significantly for September. We’re now collectively $159.4 million under the total forecast for fiscal year 2025. 

“These variances in our forecasts may be due to 2023 legislation which changed the timing of payments. In some months, we have higher collections, whereas others have significantly lower payments. Time will tell whether or not the revenue missed this month will be made up over the holidays.

“Even if we do recoup our losses, there’s no denying that we won’t have much wiggle room in 2025. Short-sighted budgetary decisions in the past, like unrestrained voucher spending, diverted funding from public resources. In this next budget cycle, we must prioritize essential long-neglected human infrastructures over unneeded investments. 

“We can still fully fund Medicaid, statewide Pre-K, our public schools and provide a property tax credit with diminished revenue. The money is there: The general fund and state surplus exist to cover unexpected deficits. It all comes down to the programs we prioritize, and I will prioritize resources that truly benefit all Hoosiers.”