Topeka ? The gold-embossed state seal that adorns many state employees’ business cards may become as rare as buffalo on open prairie if Gov. Kathleen Sebelius has her way.

In a series of money-saving moves, Sebelius has asked executive branch agencies to adopt standard business cards, printed only with blue ink, once employees’ existing supplies run out.

She has encouraged agencies to abandon gold-embossed seals and to opt for plain, uniform letterheads when they need new stationery.

And the new administration printed 40 percent fewer budget books this year than usual, instead handing out computer disks containing the 850 pages worth of data.

All are a response to the budget crisis that has forecasters predicting a $1 billion chasm between spending commitments and revenue during the next 18 months.

Legislators view the changes with a mix of admiration, amusement and annoyance.

Some think the new Democratic governor is setting a good example.

“Dimes and nickels add up to dollars, and dollars add up to millions,” said Sen. David Adkins, R-Leawood.

Others doubt the savings will be significant and point out that computer programs allow agencies to print their own letterhead, avoiding the need to order stationery.

House Speaker Doug Mays, R-Topeka, said Sebelius made a point of mentioning stationery and business cards during an early meeting with legislative leaders.

“This isn’t usually the kind of thing governors get involved with,” he said. “They usually stick to more global issues.”