State funding cuts loom for legislature

Oklahoma lawmakers have some tough spending decisions to make in the coming weeks. <br><br>State leaders say a national recession could mean a $350-million budget shortfall, for the next fiscal year, which

Monday, March 25th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Oklahoma lawmakers have some tough spending decisions to make in the coming weeks.

State leaders say a national recession could mean a $350-million budget shortfall, for the next fiscal year, which starts July 1st. That means 5% to 7% across-the-board cuts.

But some lawmakers say certain departments shouldn't be cut like education and healthcare. They say shielding them would cost others more. If education stays the same, social services would be cut $200-million in state dollars, and lose $371-million in federal matching funds.