Do I have to complete the Backseat Budgeter all at once or will my selections be saved until I return to the simulation?
As long as you click “Save My Budget Decision” your selections are saved and will be there when you return. If you wish to start fresh, click “Reset” at the top of your screen.
May I modify my decision after one has been selected?
Yes. Modify one or more of your decisions by returning to the spending or revenue option and changing your selection.
What happens with my budget once I go through all the options?
The reports are updated in real time once you click the “Save Budget” button. Create a report of your actions and see how it compares to Colorado’s adopted budget. Once enough information is collected, a report will be shared with the Governor and Legislators and available on www.EngagedPublic.com.
Does the Backseat Budgeter cover the entire state budget?
No. Colorado has a very complicated budget due to a number of fiscal provisions in the constitution. This version of the Budgeter focuses on Colorado’s General Fund—which is the major pool of money that the Governor and Legislators control. Other funds include cash and federal funds.
What counts as balanced?
For the purposes of this simulation tool, the budget is considered to be balanced with spending and revenue are within 4% of each other. Over the course of the fiscal year actual expenses change and revenue collections don’t always turn out the same as projections. The point of the simulation is to understand the budget better and to communicate the priorities to policymakers.
Where do the dollar amounts come from for each of the spending categories?
The number for each spending category is the total budget for that specific state department. For example, the budget option on health care refers to the total budget of the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF).
How were the options developed?
The options were developed in consultation with experts and advocates who have knowledge of the types of choices policymakers wrestle with each year. Some of the options are realistic and could be funded if it were the will of the Legislature and Governor. Others options, such as major health care reform, would likely take a vote of the people.
How often is the Backseat Budgeter Updated?
The revenue side of the simulation is updated four times a year when new revenue forecasts are released by the state. Spending options are updated annulally in August after the release of the allocation report.
What data sources were used to create the Backseat Budgeter?
Data came from a variety of individuals, the State of Colorado, and public policy organzations. Access list of Sources utilized.
Who sponsored the Backseat Budgeter?
This version of the Backseat Budgeter is sponsored by the Bighorn Leadership Development Program at Colorado State University. The Bighorn Program wishes to thank The Colorado Health Foundation for its support for the development of this exercise.
The mission of the Bighorn Leadership Development Program is to ensure that strong, practical leadership is available to Colorado over the long term. The program identifies potential leaders and provides them with the encouragement and training to become actively engaged in politics and public policy. It emphasizes a pragmatic approach to policy development and encourages participants to consider a range of leadership roles in public service.
Would you like to sponsor a Backseat Budgeter for your state, county city or school district?
This tool may be adapted to a variety of settings. For information, contact info@engagedpublic.com.