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More cuts could be expected during the next legislative session

By James Call

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-989170.mp3

Tallahassee, FL – Florida Legislative leaders are warning that schools, health care and other
programs could get cut again in 2012. James Call reports a drop in tax collections the last two months is raising fears there may be a 2 billion dollar budget shortfall.

A House Appropriation Committee report says general revenue projections may be off by 1 point 2 to 2 point 3 billion dollars for next year. If the shortfall is closed with only spending cuts then the state budget will decrease by as much as 10 percent. Since 2006, the legislature has balanced the budget with cuts, sweeps of trust funds and the use of non-recurring revenue like stimulus grants from the federal government.

Senate President Mike Haridopolos is vowing that lawmakers will balance the state
budget without increasing taxes. However, tuition hikes for college students haven't been ruled out.