Salt Lake City, Utah - The state closed the 2003 fiscal year, which ended June 30, 2003 with a preliminary surplus of $18.3 million. The number reflects a $16.5 million surplus in the state’s General Fund and a $1.8 million surplus in the Uniform School Fund. The surplus represents .52% of the combined General Fund and Uniform School Fund budgets.

Prior to the calculation of the surplus, state law required that $600,000 be transferred to the new Uniform School Fund Rainy Day Fund; $6.2 million be set aside for the Industrial Assistance Fund; and $1.5 million be set aside for debt service. In addition, $11.0 million was transferred to the General Fund Rainy Day Fund, bringing its balance up to $30.8 million.

Even though tax revenues were short of estimates by $16.4 million, the surplus was made possible by the return of unspent money from state departments and the federal relief grant of $38 million which the state received in June.

In December, the Governor will make recommendations to the Legislature for the use of these surplus one-time, or non-recurring funds.

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The Utah Department of Environmental Quality has issued a wildfire smoke health advisory for Utah and Salt Lake counties. Individuals with respiratory and heart disease, the elderly and young children should reduce heavy exertion outdoors, leave to an area that is clear of smoke or stay indoors. Those having problems should contact their health care provider. This health advisory will remain in effect through today and possibly tomorrow.

Particulate matter found in smoke can irritate the lungs and eyes. These fine particles can become lodged in delicate lung tissue, decreasing lung function, especially for people with respiratory and cardiovascular ailments. More information is available on the Web at www.cleanair.utah.gov.

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