By Associated Press
Tulsa, OK – OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) Gov. Brad Henry says he and state lawmakers are considering whether to convene a special legislative session in September to discuss the state's revenue outlook.
Henry announced Thursday that he, Senate President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee and House Speaker Chris Benge have made good progress in their budget talks, but they need more information.
State officials say the budget shortfall for fiscal year 2010 could exceed the $700 million shortfall experienced in 2003 the worst in state history.
After declining revenue in the final six months of the 2009 fiscal year, tax collections came in $120 million less than in July 2008.
State officials ordered a 5 percent across-the-board cut in state agencies' August budgets, even though 7 percent cuts hit most agencies on July 1.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.