States that government accounting is the product of mixing together budget-oriented and accounting-oriented voices. Presents a history of governmental accounting including the groups involved. An organization chart describes the current standard-setting structure. Accomplishments that improve reporting operations results are listed. (MLF)

Discusses a Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) publication designed to provide financial statement users with information to assess a government's actual and future deposit and investment market and credit risk. (MLF)

The Government Accounting Standards Board's Insurance Issues Project has issued an invitation to comment on two issues: (1) whether governmental risk pools should follow the same accounting principles as commercial insurance companies and (2) financial statement disclosures required of entities with public accountability (MLF)

The use of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) by all state and local governments may require legislation. Findings from a survey of states to get data on current accounting and financial reporting practices are summarized. Model legislation to provide uniformity in accounting and reporting is presented. (MLF)

Presents the history, advantages, and requirements of the Association of School Business Officials' Certificate of Excellence Program. Receiving a Certificate of Excellence provides evidence of the integrity and technical competence of a school system's fiscal administration to the board members and superintendent. (MLF)

The Government Accounting Standards Board's current Measurement Focus and Basis of Accounting Project has identified alternatives in financial resources accounting that will reduce the opportunity for political, budgetary, or other pressures to allow school districts to shift the burden of providing current-year's services to future-year's…