Senate President Mike Haridopolos opened the 2012 legislative session Tuesday by warning lawmakers that once again, they will be forced to cut billions of dollars in state spending. James Call reports, Haridopolos says programs and people will be on the cutting block.
This year’s session is beginning two months early and because of redistricting. The early start means the legislature’s budget writers won’t have a full year of tax collection data. Haridopolos told Senators early projections indicate a significant shortfall that will force Senators to make difficult decisions.
"It could be likely a $2 billion shortfall and that means programs and individuals beloved to each of us will be on the cutting block once again."
Haridopolos is asking lawmakers to delay approving a state budget until after a March revenue estimating report is released. That would require a special session an idea rejected by House leaders.