Governor announces $41 million in cuts

Gov. Bill Graves on Thursday cut state spending by $41 million, slicing funds to social services, education and higher education.

“We’re starting to carve away at the bone,” Graves said as he implemented the cuts that he said were needed because of slumping tax revenue.

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The reductions to public schools and higher education were three-fourths of one percent, the governor’s office said. Most other state agencies saw cuts of two percent.

Graves said he was saddened to make the cuts, but added, “I’m left with no choice.” And, he said, if the economy doesn’t pick up, more cuts are on the way.

Graves made the cuts under a law that allows the governor to shore up budget reserves, which had recently dipped below one percent.

The cuts will affect many social service programs by reducing family preservation services and meals to the elderly. Some layoffs of state employees will occur, although there was no specific number provided by the governor’s office.

Allotment reductions 2003 — Total $41,050,116

K-12 education 0.75% $17,510,173
Regents 0.75% $5,286,303
Gov./Lt. Gov. 5% $119,435
All OtherState General FundAgencies 2% $15,773,116
CommerceKTECKansas Inc. 2% from EDIF Funds $626,000
Out-of-StateTravel 20% $840,089
Motor PoolFleet 20% $250,000
ConsolidateSRS Offices $300,000
EmployeeTraining $345,000