RI S2103

Requires state department heads to justify their budget requests from a zero base starting with fiscal year July 1, 2027, as if each budget were being initiated for the first time

Phases in zero-based budgeting over five years: 20% of departments (those with lowest budget requests) must comply each year starting FY 2028, with all departments required by FY 2031

Creates a three-member budget review panel with appointees from the House Speaker, House Minority Leader, and Senate President to evaluate department objectives, operations, costs, and alternative approaches

Requires the budget panel to report findings and recommendations within 30 days after receiving the budget plan, before the House committee proceeds with consideration

Mandates the budget officer provide copies of all submitted zero-based budgets to both the House and Senate fiscal advisors