The balance sheet included in the forecast shows the general fund deficit for the current biennium to be $430 million with a balance of $245 million in the rainy day fund. Those numbers do not include an adjustment for the most recent caseload forecast. Including the caseload forecast would increase the deficit by about $250 million.
While the sizable current deficit is a matter of concern, of greater concern are:
- The 2011-13 biennium, which could face a deficit reaching into the billions of dollars when federal recovery funds being used to support education, health care, and public safety are no longer available.
- The potential passage of I-1033, which could cost the state nearly $6 billion by 2015.
The $238 million in decreased revenue expectations breaks down as follows:
- $109.6 million is due to a weaker forecast for consumer spending.
- $46.1 million is due to a State Supreme Court case which will lower B&O collections.
- $82 million is due to lower-than expected revenue collections since the last forecast.
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