Economists Ernesto Selman and Roque Feliz say that the changes to the fiscal reform bill made by the government team do not alter the nature of the budget that they say only seeks more revenue for the government, without considering a reduction in spending. Selman says that if the present levels of spending are maintained, even if the present bill is approved, the fiscal deficit would continue and expand. Selman said that at the pace the government is going, taxation increases will be needed every two years. The economist added that there would have to be more talks for taxation increases in 2014. Selman concluded that the proposal does not reflect a government commitment to improving the quality of public administration, making financial management of the state more efficient or establishing fiscal responsibility to prevent future excesses similar to what occurred this year when the government spent well beyond what was contemplated in the budget.
Economist Felix said that until the logic and procedures of financial administration changes and accounts become more transparent, the potential for embezzlement will remain. He said that until there is a mechanism to penalize this situation, calling for fiscal responsibility, there will be no guarantees that this increase in funds will benefit the population, as reported in Hoy.