By Tony McVeigh
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-881591.mp3
Frankfort, KY – In his budget address Tuesday, Gov. Beshear unveiled a new state spending plan dependent on almost 800-million dollars in revenue from casino gambling. But lawmakers are giving the budget the cold shoulder. This was the message delivered by House Speaker Greg Stumbo and Senate President David Williams this morning at their weekly news conference.
"Is the concept of a budget based on casino gaming - is that dead?" asked McVeigh.
"I believe I heard the president say one time he didn't want to speak ill of the dead, so I won't speak ill of the dead either," replied Stumbo.
"Does that mean it's dead?" asked McVeigh.
"It's dead," replied Stumbo.
"Mr. President?" asked McVeigh.
"I concur," Williams replied.
So, lawmakers will have to figure out ways to find new revenue beyond casino gambling. Tax reform, a one-year budget plan, elimination of some supervisory positions and bonding are among the ideas being tossed around.