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Minnesota Governor's Budget Criticized

MINNESOTA – As reported by the Timberjay News: "Gov. Tim Pawlenty's proposed 2006-07 budget, released Tuesday, relies on $200 million in casino revenue and eliminating health care coverage for thousands of Minnesotans to balance the books.

"The budget plan also calls for modest increases in overall K-12 funding, and a more substantial increase in funding for the University of Minnesota. The program also calls for changes in how schools pay teachers and offers financial incentives for districts that implement the change.

"…It now heads to the Legislature, which will undoubtedly have ideas of its own about how to trim the projected budget deficit, which totals close to $1.4 billion if inflation is taken into account.

"…Area legislators were largely critical of the governor's spending plan. Sen. Tom Bakk called Pawlenty's proposal to raise $200 million through a one-time casino license fee 'funny money.'

"…Bakk said he didn't see much interest in the Legislature for expanding gaming in the state…"

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