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Historical Utah budget and finance information

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The historical Utah budget and finance information below applies to years prior to the most current fiscal year. With the exception of the tab labeled "Prior fiscal year budgets," the tabs below display information, from several different fiscal years, as it was presented on Ballotpedia in prior calendar years. For more current information regarding Utah's budget and finances, click here.

As published 2016

Utah budget and finances
Budget Policy Logo.png
General information
Budget calendar:
Annual
Fiscal year:
2017
State credit rating:
AAA (as of 2014)
Current governor:
Gary R. Herbert
Financial figures
Total spending (state and federal funds):
$13.0 billion (estimated for 2015)
Per capita spending:
$4,323.21 (estimated for 2015)
Total state tax collections:
$6.3 billion (2014)
Per capita tax collections:
$2,143.83 (2014)
State debt:
$35.7 billion (as of 2014)
Per capita state debt:
$12,513 (as of 2014)

Public Policy Logo-one line.png
State budget and finance pagesTotal state expendituresState debtTax policy in Utah


In Utah, as in other states, lawmakers and public officials are elected in part to manage the state's finances. This includes generating revenues (money coming into the state from various sources) and approving expenditures (the money spent on governmental functions and servicing state debt). State budgets are complex and fluid, as they depend on anticipated revenues and planned expenditures, which may alter over the course of a fiscal year. If revenues do not keep pace with expenditures, states generally have to raise taxes, cut services, borrow money, or a combination of the three. State budget decisions are also influenced by policy decisions at the national level, such as the Affordable Care Act or energy and environmental regulations, and issues at the local level, such as crime and the quality of education.

HIGHLIGHTS
  • Between fiscal years 2014 and 2015, total government spending in Utah increased by approximately $0.7 billion—from $12.2 billion in fiscal year 2014 to an estimated $12.9 billion in 2015. This represents a 5.9-percent increase.[1][2][3]
  • In Utah in fiscal year 2014, 50.7 percent of total tax revenues came from income taxes.
  • Education accounted for 38.4 percent of state expenditures in fiscal year 2015, while 19.5 percent went to Medicaid.
  • The Utah state budget and financial data presented here come from different years because the states and the federal government report and publish the information at different times.

    Definitions

    The following terms are used to describe a state's finances:

    • Revenues come mainly from tax collections, licensing fees, federal aid, and returns on investments.
    • Expenditures generally include spending on government salaries, infrastructure, education, public pensions, public assistance, corrections, Medicaid, and transportation.
    • State debt refers to the money borrowed to make up for a deficit when revenues do not cover spending.
    • The state credit rating is the grade given by a credit rating agency based on the general financial health of the state's government and economy.
    • State funds include general and other state-based funds. A general fund is "the predominant fund for financing a state's operations." Other state funds are "restricted by law for particular governmental functions or activities."[4]
    • Federal funds are "funds received directly from the federal government."[4]
    • Total spending is calculated by adding together the totals for state and federal funds used for expenditures.

    Note: In comparing dollar amounts across the states, it is important to note that the cost of living can from state to state and within a state. The amounts given on this page have not been adjusted to reflect these differences. For more information on "regional price disparities" and the Consumer Price Index, see the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis.

    Revenues

    2014 revenues

    See also: State government tax collections by source

    The table below breaks down state government tax collections by source in 2014 (comparable figures from surrounding states are also provided to give additional context). Figures for all columns except "2013 population" and "Per capita collections" are rendered in thousands of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000). Figures in the columns labeled "2013 population" and "Per capita collections" have not been abbreviated.[5]

    Compared to neighboring states, Utah had the lowest state tax collections per capita, at $2,144.

    State tax collections by source ($ in thousands), 2014
    State Property taxes Sales and gross receipts Licenses Income taxes Other taxes Total 2013 population Per capita collections
    Utah N/A $2,682,100 $276,824 $3,197,822 $155,743 $6,312,489 2,944,498 $2,144
    Colorado N/A $4,474,294 $659,616 $6,375,963 $245,521 $11,755,394 5,355,588 $2,195
    Idaho N/A $1,821,303 $316,331 $1,528,077 $6,004 $3,671,715 1,634,806 $2,246
    Montana $268,508 $550,254 $314,271 $1,213,400 $309,120 $2,655,553 1,023,252 $2,595
    Wyoming $300,096 $925,757 $148,092 $0 $889,442 $2,263,387 584,304 $3,874
    United States $14,232,835 $411,414,175 $51,120,024 $357,104,785 $31,880,270 $865,752,089 318,907,401 $2,715
    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "2014 annual survey of state government tax collections by category," accessed April 4, 2016
    Utah tax collections by source in 2014.
    Source: U.S. Census Bureau

    The table below lists 2014 tax collections by source as percentages of total collections. About 50.7 percent of Utah's total state tax collections came from income taxes.[5]

    State tax collections by source (as percentages), 2014
    State Property taxes Sales and gross receipts Licenses Income taxes Other taxes
    Utah N/A 42.5% 4.4% 50.7% 2.5%
    Colorado N/A 38.1% 5.6% 54.2% 2.1%
    Idaho N/A 49.6% 8.6% 41.6% 0.2%
    Montana 10.1% 20.7% 11.8% 45.7% 11.6%
    Wyoming 13.3% 40.9% 6.5% 0.0% 39.3%
    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "2014 annual survey of state government tax collections by category," accessed April 4, 2016

    Federal aid to the state budget

    See also: Federal aid to state budgets

    State governments receive aid from the federal government to fund a variety of joint programs, mainly in the form of grants for such things as Medicaid, education, and transportation. In 2013 federal aid to the states accounted for roughly 30 percent of all state general revenues. Federal aid varies from state to state. For example, Mississippi received approximately $7.5 billion in federal aid in 2013, accounting for about 43 percent of the state's general revenues, the highest percentage of all of the states. By contrast, North Dakota received about $1.5 billion in federal aid in 2013, or just 19 percent of the state's general revenues, the lowest percentage in the nation.[6]

    The table below notes what share of Utah’s general revenues came from the federal government in 2013. That year, Utah received approximately $4.3 billion in federal aid, 29.0 percent of the state's total general revenues. Taking into consideration the state's 2013 population, this came out to about $1,482 in federal aid per capita. Figures from surrounding states are provided for additional context.[7]

    Federal aid to state budgets, 2013
    State Total federal aid ($ in thousands) Federal aid as a % of general revenues Ranking (by % of general revenues) Est. 2013 population Aid per capita
    Utah $4,298,917 29.0% 31 2,900,872 $1,482
    Colorado $6,427,852 27.8% 35 5,268,367 $1,220
    Idaho $2,522,766 34.4% 15 1,612,136 $1,565
    Montana $2,158,227 37.4% 6 1,015,165 $2,126
    Wyoming $2,085,931 35.2% 11 582,658 $3,580
    Sources: United States Census Bureau, "State Government Finances: 2013," accessed April 4, 2016
    United States Census Bureau, "State totals: Vintage 2013," accessed April 8, 2016
    Note: Per-capita figures were generated by Ballotpedia by dividing total federal aid for the state by the estimated population of that state in 2013.

    Spending

    Estimated 2015 expenditures

    See also: Total state expenditures

    The table below breaks down estimated spending totals for fiscal year 2015 (comparable figures from surrounding states are included to provide additional context). Figures for all columns except "Population” and “Per capita spending" are rendered in millions of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000,000). Figures in the columns labeled "Population” and “Per capita spending" have not been abbreviated.[2]

    Utah's total estimated government spending in fiscal year 2015 was $13.0 billion, which was the second highest amount when compared to surrounding states.

    Total estimated state spending, FY 2015 ($ in millions)
    State State funds Federal funds Total spending Population Per capita spending
    Utah $9,310 $3,642 $12,952 2,995,919 $4,323.21
    Colorado $24,285 $8,716 $33,001 5,456,574 $6,047.93
    Idaho $4,776 $2,837 $7,613 1,654,930 $4,600.19
    Montana $4,194 $2,189 $6,383 1,032,949 $6,179.40
    Wyoming $6,539 $2,298 $8,837 586,107 $15,077.45
    Per-capita figures are calculated by taking the state's total spending and dividing by the number of state residents according to United States Census Bureau estimates.[8]
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers, "Examining fiscal 2013-2015 state spending," accessed April 4, 2016

    Spending by function

    Breakdown of spending by function in FY 2014.
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    See also: State spending by function as a percent of total expenditures

    State spending in Utah can be further broken down by function (elementary and secondary education, public assistance, etc.). Fiscal year 2014 information is included in the table below (information from neighboring states is provided for additional context). Figures are rendered as percentages, indicating the share of the total budget spent per category.[2]

    In fiscal year 2014, K-12 education accounted for 25.7 percent of Utah's total expenditures.

    State spending by function as a percent of total expenditures, FY 2014
    State K-12 education Higher education Public assistance Medicaid Corrections Transportation Other
    Utah 25.7% 12.7% 0.5% 19.5% 2.1% 7.7% 31.7%
    Colorado 25.4% 8.0% 0.0% 23.0% 2.9% 5.5% 35.2%
    Idaho 24.0% 8.1% 0.2% 28.0% 3.8% 9.4% 26.6%
    Montana 15.7% 10.4% 0.5% 17.0% 3.2% 11.4% 41.9%
    Wyoming 10.0% 3.9% 0.0% 8.0% 1.8% 10.5% 65.8%
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    Note: "Other" expenditures include "Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), institutional and community care for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, public health programs, employer contributions to pensions and health benefits, economic development, environmental projects, state police, parks and recreation, housing and general aid to local governments."[2]

    Spending trends

    Between 2010 and 2014, the share of the Utah state budget spent on K-12 education increased from 18.9 percent in 2010 to 25.7 percent in 2014. See the table below for further details (figures are rendered as percentages, indicating the share of the total budget spent per category).[2][9][10]

    Spending by function from 2010 to 2014 (as percentages)
    Year K-12 education Higher education Public assistance Medicaid Corrections Transportation Other
    2014 25.7% 12.7% 0.5% 19.5% 2.1% 7.7% 31.7%
    2013 23.6% 11.5% 0.6% 17.2% 2.1% 10.4% 34.6%
    2012 24.7% 11.9% 0.9% 17.5% 2.0% 9.2% 33.9%
    2011 23.2% 10.8% 0.9% 14.7% 1.8% 10.8% 37.8%
    2010 18.9% 9.5% 0.9% 11.9% 2.6% 25.9% 30.4%
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    Note: "Other" expenditures include "Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), institutional and community care for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, public health programs, employer contributions to pensions and health benefits, economic development, environmental projects, state police, parks and recreation, housing and general aid to local governments."[2]

    Fiscal year budgets

    See also: Historical Utah budget and finance information

    Fiscal year 2016

    DocumentIcon.jpg See budget bill: Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Summary

    Governor Gary Herbert announced his fiscal year 2016 budget proposal on December 11, 2014. Under the governor's proposal, total state spending for fiscal year 2016 would have equaled approximately $14.3 billion. About 49 percent of the state's general fund was to be spent on public education, with significant portions also going towards higher education, Medicaid, and corrections.

    Governor Herbert signed the official state budget in March 2015. The final budget totaled approximately $14.24 billion, with much of that funding going towards programs recommended in the governor's proposal.

    State debt

    See also: State debt

    According to a January 2014 report by the nonprofit organization State Budget Solutions, Utah had a state debt of approximately $35.7 billion. Its state debt per capita was $12,513. In this report for fiscal year 2012, state debt was calculated based on four components: "market-valued unfunded public pension liabilities, outstanding government debt, unfunded other post employment benefit (OPEB) liabilities, and outstanding unemployment trust fund loans." The report revealed that altogether state governments faced a combined $5.1 trillion in debt, which amounted to $16,178 per capita in the nation.[11][12]

    Total 2012 state debt
    State Total state debt State debt per capita Per capita debt ranking
    Utah $35,727,752,000 $12,513 37
    Colorado $86,879,414,000 $16,748 19
    Idaho $15,094,322,000 $9,459 44
    Montana $15,769,183,000 $15,689 22
    Wyoming $9,951,523,000 $17,265 18
    Sources: State Budget Solutions, "State Budget Solutions' Fourth Annual State Debt Report," January 8, 2014

    Taxpayer burden

    Tia logo.png

    TIA Methodology: To figure a state’s taxpayer burden or surplus, TIA looked at a state’s total reported assets minus capital assets and assets restricted by law (buildings, roads, land, etc.) to calculate “available assets,” which were then compared to the amount of money the state owes in bills, including retirement obligations such as pension plans and healthcare benefits for retirees.

    If the difference between available assets and total bills was positive, TIA called this a surplus; if it was negative, this was a burden. This amount was then divided by the number of individual tax returns with a positive tax liability, thus expressing the total state surplus or burden on a per-taxpayer basis.

    According to a report released in September 2015 by the nonprofit Truth in Accounting (TIA), Utah ranked 4th best in the country in “taxpayer surplus.” Rather than using per capita state debt, TIA ranked states based on what it called a “taxpayer burden,” a term that reflects “the amount each taxpayer would have to send to their state’s treasury in order for the state to be debt-free.” On the other hand, states that had sufficient resources to pay their bills were said to have a “taxpayer surplus,” which represents the amount that each taxpayer would receive if the state were to disburse its excess funds.

    Based on analysis of Utah’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report from June 30, 2014, and actuarial reports for the state’s retirement plans, TIA concluded that $1.5 billion in promised retirement benefits were unfunded, but none of these liabilities were reported on Utah’s balance sheet. With all of the unfunded retirement benefits included in the total debt, the state had a surplus of $3.3 billion, or a taxpayer surplus of $4,200.[13]

    Public pensions

    See also: Utah public pensions and Utah public employee salaries

    Between fiscal years 2008 and 2012, the funded ratio of Utah's state-administered pension plans decreased from 86.5 percent to 76.5 percent. The state paid 100 percent of its annual required contribution, and for fiscal year 2012 the pension system's unfunded accrued liability totaled $6.6 billion. This amounted to $2,472 in unfunded liabilities per capita.[14][15]

    Credit ratings

    See also: State credit ratings

    Credit rating agencies, such as Standard and Poor's, assign grades to states that take into account a state's ability to pay debts and the general health of the state's economy. Generally speaking, a higher credit rating indicates lower interest costs on the general obligation bonds states sometimes sell to investors in order to finance large-scale undertakings (e.g., road construction and other public works projects). This in turn results in lower interest costs, thereby lowering the cost to taxpayers.[16][17]

    The table below lists the Standard and Poor's credit ratings for Utah and surrounding states from 2004 to 2014. Standard and Poor's grades range from AAA, the highest available, to BBB, the lowest.[18]

    State credit ratings, 2004 to 2014
    State 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004
    Utah AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA
    Colorado AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA- AA- AA-
    Idaho AA+ AA+ AA+ AA+ AA AA AA AA AA AA AA
    Montana AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA- AA- AA- AA-
    Wyoming AAA AAA AAA AAA AA+ AA+ AA+ AA AA AA AA
    Source: Stateline: The Daily News Service of The Pew Charitable Trusts, "Infographic: S&P State Credit Ratings, 2001-2014," June 9, 2014

    Economic indicators

    See also: Economic indicators by state
    Utah's GDP increased by 3.1 percent in 2014. Click the image to view a larger version.

    Broadly defined, a healthy economy is typically one that has a "stable and strong rate of economic growth" (gross state product, in this case) and low unemployment, among many other factors. The economic health of a state can significantly affect its healthcare costs, insurance coverage, access to care, and citizens' physical and mental health. For instance, during economic downturns, employers may reduce insurance coverage for employees, while those who are laid off may lose coverage altogether. Individuals also tend to spend less on non-urgent care or postpone visits to the doctor when times are hard. These changes in turn may affect the decisions made by policymakers as they react to shifts in the industry. Additionally, a person's socioeconomic status has profound effects on their access to care and the quality of care received.[19][20][21]

    As of September 2014, Utah had the lowest unemployment rate among its neighboring states, 3.5 percent. The state also had the lowest portion of residents that earned incomes below 100 percent of the federal poverty level, with a median annual household income of $60,053.[22][23][24][25]

    Note: Gross state product (GSP) on its own is not necessarily an indicator of economic health; GSP may also be influenced by state population size. Many factors must be looked at together to assess state economic health.

    Various economic indicators by state
    State Distribution of population by FPL* (2013) Median annual income (2011-2013) Unemployment rate Total GSP (2013)
    Under 100% 100-199% 200-399% 400%+ Sept. 2013 Sept. 2014
    Utah 8% 20% 36% 36% $60,053 4.3% 3.5% $141,240
    Arizona 20% 23% 25% 31% $49,698 8% 6.9% $279,024
    Colorado 11% 17% 29% 44% $61,634 6.6% 4.7% $294,443
    Nevada 17% 26% 28% 29% $49,204 9.6% 7.3% $132,024
    United States 15% 19% 30% 36% $52,047 7.2% 5.9% $16,701,415
    * Federal Poverty Level. "The U.S. Census Bureau's poverty threshold for a family with two adults and one child was $18,751 in 2013. This is the official measurement of poverty used by the Federal Government."
    Median annual household income, 2011-2013.
    In millions of current dollars. "Gross State Product is a measurement of a state's output; it is the sum of value added from all industries in the state."
    Source: The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, "State Health Facts"


    Budget process

    State documents and agencies
    Below are links to official Utah budget and financial documents. The first is the state's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). A CAFR is a detailed presentation of a government entity's financial condition. This includes fiscal activities and balances for a fiscal year. The second link is to the state's relevant budget agency or office.

    The state operates on an annual budget cycle. The sequence of key events in the budget process is as follows:[26]

    1. Budget instructions are sent to state agencies in August of the year preceding the start of the new fiscal year.
    2. Agencies submit their budget requests to the governor in October.
    3. The governor submits his or her proposed budget to the state legislature in December.
    4. The legislature typically passes a budget in March. A simple majority is required to pass a budget. The fiscal year begins July 1.

    Utah is one of 44 states in which the governor has line item veto authority.[26][27]

    The governor is statutorily required to submit a balanced budget to the legislature. The legislature is constitutionally required to adopt a balanced budget.[26]

    Agencies, offices, and committees

    The following standing committees in the Utah State Legislature deal with budget and finance matters:

    1. Revenue and Taxation Committee, Utah House of Representatives
    2. Revenue and Taxation Committee, Utah State Senate

    Transparency

    See also: "Following the Money" report, 2015

    The U.S. Public Interest Research Group, a consumer-focused nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., released its annual report on state transparency websites in March 2015. The report, entitled "Following the Money," measured how transparent and accountable state websites were with regard to state government spending.[28] According to the report, Utah received a grade of B and a numerical score of 86, indicating that Utah was "Advancing" in terms of transparency regarding state spending.[28]

    As published 2015


    Budget Policy Logo on Ballotpedia.png

    State finances in the U.S.
    State tax policy in the U.S.
    Pension Policy

    Public Policy Logo-one line.png

    The information on this tab contains:

    • Spending (fiscal years 2013 and 2014)
    • Revenues (fiscal year 2013)
    • State debt (fiscal year 2012)
    • Federal aid to the state budget (fiscal year 2012)
    • Budget process

    Between fiscal years 2013 and 2014, total government spending in Utah increased by approximately $700 million, from $12.2 billion in fiscal year 2013 to an estimated $12.9 billion in 2014. This represented a 5.9 percent increase. The cumulative rate of inflation during the same period was 1.58 percent, calculated using the Consumer Price Indices for January 2013 and January 2014. As of 2014, financial services firm Standard and Poor's had assigned Utah a credit rating of AAA.[29][30][31]

    HIGHLIGHTS
  • In fiscal year 2014, Utah's estimated government spending per capita ranked ninth lowest in the nation at $4,385.81.
  • Spending

    Definitions

    The following terms are used to describe a state's finances:

    • Revenues come mainly from tax collections, licensing fees, federal aid, and returns on investments.
    • Expenditures generally include spending on government salaries, infrastructure, education, public pensions, public assistance, corrections, Medicaid, and transportation.
    • State debt refers to the money borrowed to make up for a deficit when revenues do not cover spending.
    • The state credit rating is the grade given by a credit rating agency based on the general financial health of the state's government and economy.
    • State funds include general and other state-based funds. A general fund is "the predominant fund for financing a state's operations." Other state funds are "restricted by law for particular governmental functions or activities."[4]
    • Federal funds are "funds received directly from the federal government."[4]
    • Total spending is calculated by adding together the totals for state and federal funds used for expenditures.

    2014 expenditures

    See also: Total state expenditures

    The table below breaks down estimated spending totals for fiscal year 2014 (comparable figures from surrounding states are included to provide additional context). Figures for all columns except "Population” and “Per capita spending" are rendered in millions of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000,000). Figures in the columns labeled "Population” and “Per capita spending" have not been abbreviated.[31]

    In Utah in fiscal year 2014, estimated per capita spending equaled $4,386, a smaller amount than in any neighboring state.

    Total estimated state spending, FY 2014 ($ in millions)
    State State funds Federal funds Total spending Population Per capita spending
    Utah $9,263 $3,644 $12,907 2,942,902 $4,385.81
    Colorado $22,531 $7,756 $30,287 5,355,866 $5,654.92
    Idaho $4,530 $2,814 $7,344 1,634,464 $4,493.22
    Montana $4,039 $2,149 $6,188 1,023,579 $6,045.45
    Wyoming $5,563 $2,082 $7,645 584,153 $13,087.32
    Per-capita figures are calculated by taking the state's total spending and dividing by the number of state residents according to United States Census estimates.[32]
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    Spending by function

    See also: State spending by function as a percent of total expenditures
    Breakdown of spending by function in FY 2013
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    State spending in Utah can be further broken down by function (elementary and secondary education, public assistance, etc.). Fiscal year 2013 information is included in the table below (information from neighboring states is provided for additional context). Figures are rendered as percentages, indicating the share of the total budget spent per category.[31]

    In fiscal year 2013, K-12 education accounted for 23.6 percent of total government spending in Utah.

    State spending by function as a percent of total expenditures, FY 2013
    State K-12 education Higher education Public assistance Medicaid Corrections Trans-
    portation
    Other
    Utah 23.6% 11.5% 0.6% 17.2% 2.1% 10.4% 34.6%
    Colorado 26% 8.3% 0% 22% 2.6% 8.5% 32.6%
    Idaho 24.2% 8.1% 0.2% 28% 3.8% 9.6% 25.9%
    Montana 15.5% 10.1% 0.5% 17.9% 3.2% 11% 41.8%
    Wyoming 10.9% 4.8% 0% 6.6% 1.4% 6.4% 70%
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    Note: "Other" expenditures include "Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), institutional and community care for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, public health programs, employer contributions to pensions and health benefits, economic development, environmental projects, state police, parks and recreation, housing and general aid to local governments."[31]

    Spending trends

    Between 2009 and 2013, the share of the Utah state budget spent on transportation decreased from 15.1 percent to 10.4 percent. See the table below for further details (figures are rendered as percentages, indicating the share of the total budget spent per category).[31][9][10][33][34]

    Spending by function from 2009 to 2013 (as percentages)
    Year K-12 education Higher education Public assistance Medicaid Corrections Transportation Other
    2013 23.6% 11.5% 0.6% 17.2% 2.1% 10.4% 34.6%
    2012 24.7% 11.9% 0.9% 17.5% 2.0% 9.2% 33.9%
    2011 23.2% 10.8% 0.9% 14.7% 1.8% 10.8% 37.8%
    2010 18.9% 9.5% 0.9% 11.9% 2.6% 25.9% 30.4%
    2009 25.5% 11.3% 1.1% 14.6% 3.5% 15.1% 28.8%
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    Note: "Other" expenditures include "Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), institutional and community care for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, public health programs, employer contributions to pensions and health benefits, economic development, environmental projects, state police, parks and recreation, housing and general aid to local governments."[31]

    Revenues

    2013 revenues

    See also: State government tax collections by source

    The table below breaks down state government tax collections by source in 2013 (comparable figures from surrounding states are also provided to give additional context). Figures for all columns except "Population" and "Per capita revenue" are rendered in thousands of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000). Figures in the columns labeled "Population" and "Per capita revenue" have not been abbreviated.[5]

    Total state tax collections in Utah in 2013 equaled $6.3 billion. Per capita tax collections totaled $2,180.

    State tax collections by source, FY 2013 ($ in thousands)
    State Property taxes Sales and gross receipts Licenses Individual income taxes Corporation net income taxes Other taxes Total 2013 population Per capita collections
    Utah N/A $2,739,916 $294,174 $2,852,088 $330,684 $112,050 $6,328,912 2,902,787 $2,180.29
    Colorado N/A $4,279,544 $637,707 $5,528,485 $652,180 $147,746 $11,245,662 5,272,086 $2,133.06
    Idaho N/A $1,773,270 $306,627 $1,292,562 $200,340 $6,294 $3,579,093 1,612,843 $2,219.12
    Montana $262,313 $558,961 $320,858 $1,045,500 $170,999 $285,979 $2,644,610 1,014,864 $2,605.88
    Wyoming $331,899 $826,387 $155,241 N/A N/A $872,527 $2,186,054 583,223 $3,748.23
    Source: Tax Policy Center, "State Tax Collection Sources 2000-2013," June 20, 2014
    Utah tax collections by source in 2013
    Source: Tax Policy Center

    The table below lists 2013 tax collections by source as percentages of total collections. Taken together, sales taxes, gross receipts and individual income taxes accounted for nearly 90 percent of total state tax collections in Utah in fiscal year 2013.[5]

    State tax collections by source (as percentages)
    State Property taxes Sales and gross receipts Licenses Individual income taxes Corporation net income taxes Other taxes
    Utah N/A 43.29% 4.65% 45.06% 5.22% 1.77%
    Colorado N/A 38.06% 5.67% 49.16% 5.80% 1.31%
    Idaho N/A 49.55% 8.57% 36.11% 5.60% 0.18%
    Montana 9.92% 21.14% 12.13% 39.53% 6.47% 10.81%
    Wyoming 15.18% 37.80% 7.10% N/A N/A 39.91%
    Source: Tax Policy Center, "State Tax Collection Sources 2000-2013," June 20, 2014

    State debt

    See also: State debt

    According to a January 2014 report by the nonprofit organization State Budget Solutions, Utah had a state debt of approximately $35.7 billion. Its state debt per capita was $12,513. In this report for fiscal year 2012, state debt was calculated based on four components: "market-valued unfunded public pension liabilities, outstanding government debt, unfunded other post employment benefit (OPEB) liabilities, and outstanding unemployment trust fund loans." The report revealed that altogether state governments faced a combined $5.1 trillion in debt, which amounted to $16,178 per capita in the nation.[35][36]

    Total 2012 state debt
    State Total state debt State debt per capita Per capita debt ranking
    Utah $35,727,752,000 $12,513 37
    Colorado $86,879,414,000 $16,748 19
    Idaho $15,094,322,000 $9,459 44
    Montana $15,769,183,000 $15,689 22
    Wyoming $9,951,523,000 $17,265 18
    Sources: State Budget Solutions, "State Budget Solutions' Fourth Annual State Debt Report," January 8, 2014

    Public pensions

    See also: Utah public pensions and Utah public employee salaries

    Between fiscal years 2008 and 2012, the funded ratio of Utah's state-administered pension plans decreased from 86.5 percent to 76.5 percent. The state paid 100 percent of its annual required contribution, and for fiscal year 2012 the pension system's unfunded accrued liability totaled $6.6 billion. This amounted to $2,472 in unfunded liabilities per capita.[14][37]

    Credit ratings

    See also: State credit ratings

    Credit rating agencies, such as Standard and Poor's, assign grades to states that take into account a state's ability to pay debts and the general health of the state's economy. Generally speaking, a higher credit rating indicates lower interest costs on the general obligation bonds states sometimes sell to investors in order to finance large-scale undertakings (e.g., road construction and other public works projects). This in turn results in lower interest costs, thereby lowering the cost to taxpayers.[16][38]

    The table below lists the Standard and Poor's credit ratings for Utah and surrounding states from 2004 to 2014. Standard and Poor's grades range from AAA, the highest available, to BBB, the lowest.[39]

    State credit ratings, 2004 to 2014
    State 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004
    Utah AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA AAA
    Colorado AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA- AA- AA-
    Idaho AA+ AA+ AA+ AA+ AA AA AA AA AA AA AA
    Montana AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA- AA- AA- AA-
    Wyoming AAA AAA AAA AAA AA+ AA+ AA+ AA AA AA AA
    Source: Stateline: The Daily News Service of The Pew Charitable Trusts, "Infographic: S&P State Credit Ratings, 2001-2014," June 9, 2014

    Federal aid to the state budget

    See also: Federal aid to state budgets

    State governments receive aid from the federal government to fund a variety of joint programs, such as Medicaid. Federal aid varies from state to state. For example, Mississippi received approximately $7.7 billion in federal aid in 2012, which accounted for more than 45 percent of the state's general revenues. By contrast, Alaska received roughly $2.9 billion in federal aid in 2012, just under 20 percent of the state's general revenues.[7]

    The table below notes what share of Utah’s general revenues came from the federal government in 2012. That year, Utah received approximately $4.5 billion in federal aid, 31.6 percent of the state's total general revenues. Figures from surrounding states are provided for additional context.[7]

    Federal aid to state budgets, 2012
    State Total federal aid ($ in thousands) Federal aid as a % of general revenue Ranking
    Utah $4,481,494 31.61% 31
    Colorado $6,310,538 28.84% 35
    Idaho $2,479,094 34.90% 16
    Montana $2,202,444 38.97% 6
    Wyoming $2,213,249 37.51% 8
    Source: United States Census Bureau, "State Government Finances: 2012," accessed February 24, 2014

    Stimulus

    Utah received $2.09 billion in federal stimulus funding between February 2009 and June 2013.[40]

    Budget process

    The state operates on an annual budget cycle. The sequence of key events in the budget process is as follows:[26]

    1. Budget instructions are sent to state agencies in August of the year preceding the start of the new fiscal year.
    2. Agencies submit their budget requests to the governor in October.
    3. The governor submits his or her proposed budget to the state legislature in December.
    4. The legislature typically passes a budget in March. A simple majority is required to pass a budget. The fiscal year begins July 1.

    Utah is one of 44 states in which the governor has line item veto authority.[26][41]

    The governor is statutorily required to submit a balanced budget to the legislature. The legislature is constitutionally required to adopt a balanced budget.[26]

    Agencies, offices, and committees

    The following standing committees in the Utah State Legislature deal with budget and finance matters:

    1. Revenue and Taxation Committee, Utah House of Representatives
    2. Revenue and Taxation Committee, Utah State Senate

    Studies and reports

    U.S. PIRG "Following the Money" report

    See also: "Following the Money" report, 2014

    The U.S. Public Interest Research Group, a consumer-focused nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., released its annual report on state transparency websites in April 2014. The report, entitled "Following the Money," measured how transparent and accountable state websites were with regard to state government spending.[42] According to the report, Utah received a grade of B- and a numerical score of 82, indicating that Utah was an "advancing" state in terms of transparency regarding state spending.[42]

    As published 2014

    The information on this tab contains:

    • Spending (fiscal year 2013)
    • Spending by function (fiscal year 2012)
    • Spending trends (fiscal years 2008 to 2012)
    • Revenues (fiscal year 2013)
    • Historical spending (fiscal years 2009 to 2012)
    • Budget transparency

    Between fiscal year 2009 and fiscal year 2013, Utah's total expenditures increased by approximately $1.044 billion, from $11.559 billion in 2009 to $12.603 billion in 2013. This represented a 9.03 percent increase, roughly equivalent to the cumulative rate of inflation during the same period (9.06 percent, calculated using the Consumer Price Indices for January 2009 and January 2013).[43][44]

    Spending

    Definitions

    Although each state executes its budget process differently, the National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) breaks down state expenditures into four general categories. This allows for comparisons among the 50 states. NASBO's categories are as follows:[45]

    • General fund: "The predominant fund for financing a state’s operations. Revenues are received from broad-based state taxes. However, there are differences in how specific functions are financed from state to state."[45]
    • Other funds: "Expenditures from revenue sources that are restricted by law for particular governmental functions or activities. For example, a gasoline tax dedicated to a highway trust fund would appear in the 'Other funds' column. For Medicaid, other state funds include provider taxes, fees, donations, assessments, and local funds."[45]
    • Federal funds: "Funds received directly from the federal government."[45]
    • Bonds: "Expenditures from the sale of bonds, generally for capital projects."[45]

    2013

    Breakdown of expenditures in FY 2013
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    The table below breaks down expenditures for fiscal year 2013 (comparable figures from surrounding states are provided to give additional context).[45] Figures for all columns except "Per capita expenditures" are rendered in millions of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000,000). Figures in the column labeled "Per capita expenditures" have not been abbreviated.

    Total state expenditures, FY 2013 ($ in millions)[45]
    State General fund Federal funds Other funds Bonds Total Per capita expenditures
    Utah $4,990 $3,405 $3,739 $469 $12,603 $4,344.56
    Colorado $7,942 $7,334 $13,203 $0 $28,479 $5,405.66
    Idaho $2,699 $2,792 $1,718 $33 $7,242 $4,492.18
    Montana $1,947 $2,115 $1,978 $0 $6,040 $5,949.77
    Wyoming $3,709 $2,353 $2,549 $0 $8,611 $14,778.82
    Per-capita figures are calculated by taking the state's total expenditures and dividing by the number of state residents according to United States Census estimates.[46]
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    Spending by function

    2012

    Breakdown of expenditures by function in FY 2012.
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    State expenditures in Utah can be further broken down by function (elementary and secondary education, public assistance, etc.). Fiscal year 2012 data is included in the table below (information from neighboring states is provided for additional context). Figures are rendered as percentages, indicating the share of the total budget spent per category.

    Expenditures by function, FY 2012 (as percentages)[45]
    State Elementary and secondary ed. Higher ed. Public assistance Medicaid Corrections Transportation Other
    Utah 24.7% 11.9% 0.9% 17.5% 2.0% 9.2% 33.9%
    Colorado 25.3% 9.0% 0.0% 20.7% 2.7% 5.4% 36.9%
    Idaho 25.7% 8.1% 0.3% 27.2% 3.7% 10.9% 24.2%
    Montana 15.5% 9.8% 0.5% 16.8% 3.1% 12.7% 41.5%
    Wyoming 3.9% 5.5% 0.0% 9.5% 4.6% 9.5% 66.9%
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    Note: "Other" expenditures include "Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), institutional and community care for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, public health programs, employer contributions to pensions and health benefits, economic development, environmental projects, state police, parks and recreation, housing and general aid to local governments."[45]

    Spending trends

    From 2008 to 2012, the share of the state budget spent on transportation fell by nearly 13 percentage points, or 58.4 percent. The table below details changes in expenditures from 2008 to 2012.[45][9][10][33][34] Figures are rendered as percentages, indicating the share of the total budget spent per category.

    Expenditures from 2008 to 2012 (as percentages)
    Year Elementary and secondary ed. Higher ed. Public assistance Medicaid Corrections Transportation Other
    2012 24.7% 11.9% 0.9% 17.5% 2.0% 9.2% 33.9%
    2011 23.2% 10.8% 0.9% 14.7% 1.8% 10.8% 37.8%
    2010 18.9% 9.5% 0.9% 11.9% 2.6% 25.9% 30.4%
    2009 25.5% 11.3% 1.1% 14.6% 3.5% 15.1% 28.8%
    2008 23.2% 10.9% 0.7% 13.6% 2.9% 22.1% 26.6%
    Change in % 1.50% 1.00% 0.20% 3.90% -0.90% -12.90% 7.30%
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers
    Note: "Other" expenditures include "Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), institutional and community care for the mentally ill and developmentally disabled, public health programs, employer contributions to pensions and health benefits, economic development, environmental projects, state police, parks and recreation, housing and general aid to local governments."[45]

    Revenues

    Breakdown of general fund revenue sources in FY 2013
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    The table below breaks down general fund revenues by source in fiscal year 2013 (comparable figures from surrounding states are also provided to give additional context).[45] Figures for all columns except "Per capita revenue" are rendered in millions of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000,000). Figures in the column labeled "Per capita revenue" have not been abbreviated.

    Revenue sources in the general fund, FY 2013 ($ in millions)[45]
    State Sales tax Personal income tax Corporate income tax Gaming tax Other taxes and fees Total Per capita revenue
    Utah $1,633 $2,652 $313 $0 $495 $5,093 $1,755.68
    Colorado $2,186 $5,642 $640 $13 $111 $8,592 $1,630.87
    Idaho $1,152 $1,313 $194 $0 $140 $2,799 $1,736.21
    Montana $62 $1,048 $177 $57 $734 $2,078 $2,046.96
    Wyoming $499 $0 $0 $0 $549 $1,048 $1,798.65
    Per-capita figures are calculated by taking the state's total revenues and dividing by the number of state residents according to United States Census estimates for 2013.[46]
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    Revenue trends

    The table below details the change in revenue sources in the general fund from 2009 to 2013.[45][9] Figures for all columns except "Per capita revenue" are rendered in millions of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000,000). Figures in the column labeled "Per capita revenue" have not been abbreviated.

    Revenue sources in the general fund, Utah ($ in millions)[45][9]
    Year Sales tax Personal income tax Corporate income tax Gaming tax Other taxes and fees Total Per capita revenue
    2013 $1,633 $2,652 $313 $0 $495 $5,093 $1,755.68
    2012 $1,583 $2,459 $269 $0 $548 $4,859 $1,702.00
    2011 $1,601 $2,298 $261 $0 $499 $4,659 $1,655.19
    2010 $1,403 $2,105 $258 $0 $427 $4,193 $1,511.30
    2009 $1,547 $2,339 $269 $0 $412 $4,567 $1,640.11
    Change in % 5.56% 13.38% 16.36% 0.00% 20.15% 11.52% 7.05%
    Per-capita figures are calculated by taking the state's total revenues and dividing by the number of state residents according to United States Census estimates.[46][47]
    Source: National Association of State Budget Officers

    Historical spending

    The information on state budget historical spending below was compiled by the National Association of State Budget Officers. Figures reflect the reported "Total Expenditures" in Table 1. Figures for all columns are rendered in millions of dollars (for example, $2,448 translates to $2,448,000,000).[45][10]

    Historical state spending in Utah ($ in millions)
    Fiscal year General Fund Other funds Federal funds Bonds Budget totals
    Total % of Budget Total % of Budget Total % of Budget Total % of Budget
    2011-2012 $4,742 40% $3,039 26% $3,588 30% $453 4% $11,822
    2010-2011 $4,628 36% $4,115 32% $3,579 28% $366 3% $12,688
    2009-2010 $4,372 35% $4,316 34% $3,607 29% $303 2% $12,598
    Averages: $4,581 37% $3,823 31% $3,591 29% $374 3% $12,369

    Budget transparency

    Transparency evaluation
    Transparent Utah
    Searchability Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    Grants N
    600px-Red x.png
    Contracts Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    Line item expenditures Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    Dept./agency budgets Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    Public employee salaries PPartial.png
    Last evaluation date unknown.
    See also: Evaluation of Utah state website and Constitutional provisions regarding reading of bills

    In 2008, the Utah State Legislature passed SB 38. The bill proposed the availability of public financial information on the Internet. Additionally, it modified notice requirements of the Open and Public Meetings Act.[48] Utah's spending transparency website was launched in May 2009.[49]

    The table to the right is helpful in evaluating the level of transparency provided by a state spending database.

    Multi-measure budget transparency profile

    The Institute of Government and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois created a multi-measure transparency profile for Utah, which measured state transparency as of September 2011 using indicators from a range of organizations. These indicators measured both website transparency and other recognized facets of governmental transparency. In addition, IGPA presented four unique indicators of non-transparency based on the observation that transfers or reassignments between general and special funds can obscure the true fiscal condition of a state.[50][51]

    IGPA devised a budget transparency index based on information available from the National Association of State Budget Officers. Utah tied for eighth in the nation with 12 other states, earning six out of eight possible points.[51]

    Utah - IGPA score for budget process, contents and disclosure
    Budget transparency indicator Yes or no?
    Performance measures N
    600px-Red x.png
    "Generally Accepted Accounting Principles" budget Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    Multi-year forecasting
    {{{1}}}
    Annual cycle Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    Binding revenue forecast
    {{{1}}}
    Legislative revenue forecast
    {{{1}}}
    Nonpartisan staff N
    600px-Red x.png
    Constitution or statutory tax/spend limitations Y
    600px-Yes check.png
    TOTAL 6

    In addition to the individual state profile, IGPA offers a 50-state comparison and profiles for other states.[51]

    Prior fiscal year budgets

    Fiscal year 2016

    DocumentIcon.jpg See budget bill: Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Summary

    Governor Gary Herbert announced his fiscal year 2016 budget proposal on December 11, 2014. Under the governor's proposal, total state spending for fiscal year 2016 would have equaled approximately $14.3 billion. About 49 percent of the state's general fund was to be spent on public education, with significant portions also going towards higher education, Medicaid and corrections.

    Governor Herbert signed the official state budget in March 2015. The final budget totaled approximately $14.24 billion, with much of that funding going towards programs recommended in the governor's proposal.

    Fiscal year 2015

    DocumentIcon.jpg See budget bill: Fiscal Year 2015 Budget Bills

    Governor Gary Herbert announced his fiscal year 2015 budget proposal on December 4, 2013. Under the governor's proposal, total state spending for fiscal year 2015 would have equaled approximately $13.3 billion.[2]

    On April 1, 2014, Herbert signed into law the fiscal year 2015 budget. The enacted budget totaled $13.5 billion, a 1.2 percent increase over fiscal year 2014.[2]

    Fiscal year 2014

    DocumentIcon.jpg See budget bill: 2013-2014 Appropriations Report

    Rather than pass one all-encompassing appropriation bill, the Utah State Legislature instead typically passes a series of appropriations bills that together comprise the state budget. The state's legislature's Office of the Legislative Fiscal Analyst publishes an annual summary report that details the enacted state budget.[52] 6,5 To access the appropriations report for fiscal year 2014, click here.

    Fiscal year 2013

    See also: Utah state budget (2012-2013)

    Fiscal year 2012

    See also: Utah state budget (2011-2012)

    Fiscal year 2011

    See also: Utah state budget (2010-2011)

    Fiscal year 2010

    See also: Utah state budget (2009-2010)

    See also

    Footnotes

    1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "CPI Detailed Report Data for February 2015," accessed April 4, 2016
    2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 National Association of State Budget Officers, "Examining fiscal 2013-2015 state spending," accessed April 4, 2016 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "nasbo2015" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "nasbo2015" defined multiple times with different content
    3. InflationData.com, "Cumulative Inflation Calculator," accessed April 4, 2016. The cumulative rate of inflation during the same period declined -0.1 percent, calculated using the Consumer Price Indices for January 2014 and January 2015.
    4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditure Report: 2013-2015," accessed April 7, 2016
    5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 U.S. Census Bureau, "2014 annual survey of state government tax collections by category," accessed April 4, 2016 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "taxcollections" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "taxcollections" defined multiple times with different content
    6. United States Census Bureau, "State Government Finances: 2013," accessed March 21, 2016
    7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 United States Census Bureau, "State Government Finances: 2012," accessed February 24, 2014
    8. United States Census Bureau, "State and County QuickFacts," accessed April 4, 2016
    9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditure Report, 2009-2011," accessed February 24, 2014
    10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditures Report, 2010-2012," accessed February 24, 2014
    11. State Budget Solutions, "State Budget Solutions' Fourth Annual State Debt Report," January 8, 2014
    12. In 2016, State Budget Solutions was absorbed by the American Legislative Exchange Council.
    13. Truth in Accounting, "Financial State of the States," September 2015
    14. 14.0 14.1 Morningstar, "The State of State Pension Plans 2013: A Deep Dive Into Shortfalls and Surpluses," accessed September 16, 2013
    15. The Pew Charitable Trusts, “The Fiscal Health of State Pension Plans: Funding Gap Continues to Grow,” accessed April 16, 2015
    16. 16.0 16.1 Stateline: The Daily News Service of The Pew Charitable Trusts, "Infographic: S&P State Credit Ratings, 2001-2012," July 13, 2012
    17. Bankrate, "The 6 states with the worst credit ratings," September 27, 2012
    18. Stateline: The Daily News Service of The Pew Charitable Trusts, "Infographic: S&P State Credit Ratings, 2001-2014," June 9, 2014
    19. Academy Health, "Impact of the Economy on Health Care," August 2009
    20. The Conversation, "Budget explainer: What do key economic indicators tell us about the state of the economy?" May 6, 2015
    21. Health Affairs, "Socioeconomic Disparities In Health: Pathways And Policies," accessed July 13, 2015
    22. The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, "Distribution of Total Population by Federal Poverty Level," accessed July 17, 2015
    23. The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, "Median Annual Household Income," accessed July 17, 2015
    24. The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, "Unemployment Rate (Seasonally Adjusted)," accessed July 17, 2015
    25. The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, "Total Gross State Product (GSP) (millions of current dollars)," accessed July 17, 2015
    26. 26.0 26.1 26.2 26.3 26.4 26.5 National Association of State Budget Officers, "Budget Processes in the States, Spring 2021," accessed January 24, 2023
    27. National Conference of State Legislatures, "Separation of Powers: Executive Veto Powers," accessed January 26, 2024
    28. 28.0 28.1 U.S. Public Interest Research Group, "Following the Money 2015 Report," accessed April 4, 2016
    29. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "CPI Detailed Report Data for February 2014," accessed April 9, 2014
    30. InflationData.com, "Cumulative Inflation Calculator," February 28, 2014
    31. 31.0 31.1 31.2 31.3 31.4 31.5 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditure Report: 2012-2014," accessed February 18, 2015
    32. United States Census Bureau, "State and County QuickFacts," accessed February 23, 2014
    33. 33.0 33.1 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditure Report, 2009," accessed February 24, 2014
    34. 34.0 34.1 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditure Report, 2008," accessed February 24, 2014
    35. State Budget Solutions, "State Budget Solutions' Fourth Annual State Debt Report," January 8, 2014
    36. In 2016, State Budget Solutions was absorbed by the American Legislative Exchange Council.
    37. The Pew Charitable Trusts, “The Fiscal Health of State Pension Plans: Funding Gap Continues to Grow,” accessed April 16, 2015
    38. Bankrate, "The 6 states with the worst credit ratings," September 27, 2012
    39. Stateline: The Daily News Service of The Pew Charitable Trusts, "Infographic: S&P State Credit Ratings, 2001-2014," June 9, 2014
    40. Recovery.gov, "Stimulus Spending by State," accessed February 21, 2014
    41. National Conference of State Legislatures, "Separation of Powers: Executive Veto Powers," accessed January 26, 2024
    42. 42.0 42.1 U.S. Public Interest Research Group, "Following the Money 2014 Report," accessed April 15, 2014
    43. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "CPI Detailed Report Data for February 2014," accessed April 9, 2014
    44. InflationData.com, "Cumulative Inflation Calculator," February 28, 2014
    45. 45.00 45.01 45.02 45.03 45.04 45.05 45.06 45.07 45.08 45.09 45.10 45.11 45.12 45.13 45.14 45.15 National Association of State Budget Officers, "State Expenditure Report, 2011-2013," accessed February 21, 2014
    46. 46.0 46.1 46.2 United States Census Bureau, "Annual Estimates of the Resident Population: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2013," accessed February 26, 2014
    47. United States Census Bureau, "Vintage 2009: Annual Population Estimates," accessed February 26, 2014
    48. State of Utah, "Performance Elevated," accessed April 7, 2009
    49. Transparent Utah, "Home page," accessed September 18, 2013
    50. Institute of Government and Public Affairs at University of Illinois, "Home page," accessed February 21, 2014
    51. 51.0 51.1 51.2 Institute of Government and Public Affairs at University of Illinois, "Budget Transparency Profiles - All 50 States," September 2011
    52. Governor's Office of Management and Budget, "State Budget," accessed May 5, 2014