Kansas Gov. Mark Parkinson said he might consider seeking new revenue measures and oppose deeper cuts in education spending when the Legislature convenes Jan. 11.
The Democratic Parkinson said he supports a second stimulus package under consideration by Congress. If that revenue is not available, he will have to reach agreement with a Legislature controlled by Republicans who want deeper spending cuts.
Kansas has cut spending five times in 2009, with six months remaining in the current fiscal year. The state’s general tax revenue covers about $5.35 billion in spending, which is 12% below the outlays of the previous fiscal year. The shortfall for fiscal 2011, beginning July 1, is estimated at about $300 million.
Parkinson also said he will try to avoid deep cuts in prison spending and reimbursements to health care.
Education spending, which accounts for two-thirds of the state budget, was cut by about 10% or $421 per student this year. That put school spending at a lower threshold than in 2006.
