What does Georgia state law require regarding the budget?

Georgia state law mandates that budget expenditures cannot exceed available funds. This requirement ensures fiscal responsibility and accountability in the management of state finances. By aligning expenditures strictly with available resources, the law helps prevent budget deficits and promotes the sustainable use of state funds. This principle is crucial for maintaining a balanced budget and ensuring that the state does not commit to spending beyond its means.

In contrast, the other options do not adhere to this fundamental requirement. While budget flexibility might be desired in certain contexts, it does not conform to the strict guidelines that govern budget expenditures. Including debt financing could potentially lead to a situation where expenditures surpass what is genuinely available, which contradicts the principle of fiscal prudence. Lastly, allowing budget requests to exceed revenue estimates could lead to significant financial shortfalls, undermining the state’s ability to operate within its means. Thus, adherence to the requirement that expenditures do not exceed available funds is central to Georgia's approach to budgeting.