The budget covers which period?

Under the PERA Force Laws, the budget prepared by the Authorized Officer explicitly covers the next financial year. This ensures that all planning, allocation, and expenditure decisions are made in advance, allowing the Authority to operate efficiently in the upcoming financial period. Section 71 and related provisions specify that the budget is forward-looking, providing a roadmap for revenue collection, resource distribution, and financial management. The preparation for the next financial year enables proper monitoring and evaluation of performance, avoids reactive decision-making, and maintains accountability and transparency. Options like the previous year, current year, or a five-year plan are not applicable under this section, as the law mandates a budget period aligned with the upcoming financial year for effective governance and fiscal planning.