Kansas collected $468 million in tax revenue in September, down $67 million or 12.5% from the $535 million it expected.
The preliminary figures from the Department of Revenue show a drop in monthly revenue for the first time since fiscal 2010 began in July after two months that met budget projections.
The state had to cut agency budgets or otherwise adjust the budget four times in fiscal 2009 to avoid a deficit.
Gov. Mark Parkinson said predictions of similar cuts this fiscal year are premature.
“We knew there would be good months and bad months as we work our way out of this recession,” said Parkinson. “It is too early to panic, and too soon to make rushed decisions”
State Rep. Kevin Yoder, R-Overland Park, chairman of the House appropriations committee, said lawmakers may have to deal with a budget deficit of $500 million unless Parkinson takes steps to balance the budget before the Legislature convenes in January.
