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Rep. Ross says
economic forecast shows the importance of prioritizing and reducing
spending in next budget
Rep. Charles Ross,
R-Naches, today gave this statement about the economic revenue forecast
released today, which predicts the state will bring in
$1.9 billion less than earlier predictions for the next biennium,
adding to the state's projected deficit for the 2009-11 budget cycle:
"Now more than ever is the time to prioritize and reducing our spending.
These are serious numbers that we can't take lightly. I see the storm
clouds on the horizon, and it's not going to be easy to deal with this
challenge.
"We're seeing our city and county governments struggle as well. They are
being forced to cut programs and prioritize what is most important.
State government is no different.
"As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I look forward to
being involved in the discussion next year on how we can live within our
means.
"I think the approach we take is to first fully fund the programs that
are core functions to government, and also protect our state's most
vulnerable citizens.
"Given the financial downturn we are seeing across the country, I
hope the governor and majority of the Legislature agree with me that
increasing taxes is not the solution."
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For more information, contact:
Sarah Lamb, Public Information
Officer - (360) 786-7720
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