Määräraja

Määräraja is a Finnish term that translates to "appropriation limit" or "budgetary limit" in English. It refers to a legally established ceiling or maximum amount of money that can be spent or allocated for a specific purpose or by a particular government entity during a fiscal period. These limits are typically set by legislative bodies, such as the parliament, as part of the annual budget process.

The primary function of määräraja is to control government spending and ensure fiscal responsibility. By setting these limits, governments can plan and manage their financial resources effectively, preventing overspending and maintaining budgetary discipline. They are a crucial tool for parliamentary oversight of public finances.

Määräraja can apply to various levels of government, including national, regional, and municipal bodies. They can also be specified for different sectors or programs, such as education, healthcare, defense, or infrastructure projects. Exceeding a määräraja usually requires specific authorization or a revision of the budget. The concept ensures that public funds are used in accordance with the decisions made by elected representatives.