Poll: Louisiana Public Sees A Spending Problem (74% Say Don't Raid Trust Funds)
by Bernie Pinsonat (SMOR)

"A proposed rule change that would allow the Legislature to use various trust funds to cover budget shortfalls is very unpopular with 74 percent of respondents opposed. If the legislation is approved, it would be a tough sell with voters who must approve in the form of a constitutional amendment.

Regarding state spending, 56.5 percent of respondents said state officials are spending too much, while 31.3 percent said a lack of revenue is the problem. As long as voters believe spending is the problem, they aren’t likely to accept higher taxes and fees.

Meanwhile, 58.8 percent of respondents said they believe their state tax dollars are not being spent wisely. If budget deficits continue into the 2011 election cycle, state spending will join the pay raise issue a “hot button” for legislative challengers.

A majority of respondents – 51.8 percent – want the Legislature to enact laws that make all state programs subject to budget cuts, not just higher education and health care."