Bentley Questions Budget Language

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) – Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley says lawmakers encroached on the powers of the executive branch with budget bill language dictating how state agencies should spend money.

The governor on Wednesday asked the Alabama Supreme Court to review the constitutionality of budget language giving state agencies limitations as they deal with funding reductions.

The governor asked justices to review several sections of the budget act. One says lawmakers intend for the state to keep all drivers’ license offices open. Another says cuts should come from administrative functions before reducing services.

Bentley said he believes the provisions violate other separation of powers in government.

Legislators added the language as they reached a budget agreement last week. Bentley asked justices to provide a quick answer since the fiscal year begins Oct. 1.