Stalled AIG Settlement Could Deepen R.I. Budget Deficit

May 11, 2007

Rhode Island’s estimated budget deficit could grow by almost $100 million because of a stalled settlement with an insurer accused of deceptive business practices, state officials warn.

As part of a massive settlement reached last year, American International Group Inc. agreed to pay states and other private companies about $1.64 billion to settle accusations it used deceptive accounting practices that misled investors and regulators.

But not all parties to the settlement are willing to sign, meaning Rhode Island’s slice of the profits will be delayed for the foreseeable future, Joseph Torti III, the state’s insurance commissioner, said.

Expecting the money, Republican Gov. Don Carcieri included it in a proposed budget that attempts to close an estimated $360 million budget deficit.

“Obviously, it’s not what I wanted to hear,” said state Rep. Steven Costantino, the Democratic chairman of the House Finance Committee. “If you can’t get it, you can’t get it. We still have to balance the budget.”

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Information from: The Providence Journal, http://www.projo.com/

Topics AIG

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Latest Comments

  • May 14, 2007 at 1:51 am
    MERRILL KELLET says:
    SHOWS THE INTELLIGENCE OF LEGISLATORS IS A LITTLE HIGHER THAN A SQUIRREL
  • May 11, 2007 at 4:21 am
    Larry says:
    Since when does a State include money from damages in their operating budget. Now that is some very smart budgeting. Where would they get the money if they couldn\'t suck it... read more
  • May 11, 2007 at 3:59 am
    glenn says:
    typical government. spending before you get it. cutting expenses is not in a politician vocabulary. they have a never ending appetite for money, regardless of where it comes ... read more

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