Go to Minnesota's budget shortfall

Minnesota's budget shortfall

Coverage of the debate over Minnesota's $4.6 billion state budget shortfall.
  • The state budget in your backyard: Fergus Falls
    We continue our look at the impact of the state's budget shortfall through the eyes of individual communities. This time, we visit Fergus Falls.March 4, 2009
  • Minn. economic forecast: Gloomy for a few more years
    While politicians wrangled today over how to address the projected shortfall in the next biennium, the state economist laid out the grim reasons behind the budget problems. Some observers say even his gloomy outlook might be too sunny.March 3, 2009
  • Kelliher, Seifert discuss their budget ideas
    Minnesota lawmakers now have a budget number to work with -- the deficit is $4.5 billion. Two Minnesota House leaders from either side of the aisle offer their perspectives on how to balance the budget.Midmorning, March 3, 2009
  • Gov. Pawlenty discusses the budget forecast
    Gov. Tim Pawlenty holds a news conference this morning to answer questions about the new revenue forecast and projected budget deficit of $4.5 billion. We have live coverage, plus analysis of the new numbers from two political observers.Midday, March 3, 2009
  • Some cities warn of budget cuts while sitting on rainy day funds
    Local elected officials have been warning that state aid cuts will mean fewer police and firefighters on the street. But some cities appear to be in a better position than others to handle cuts.March 3, 2009
  • Legislators eye fix for red ink
    State finance officials release a new economic forecast today, and all signs suggest Minnesota's $4.8 billion budget deficit will grow significantly larger.March 3, 2009
  • State colleges prepare for budget cuts
    St. Cloud State University already lost $1.6 million when Gov. Pawlenty used his budget-cutting authority late last year.March 2, 2009
  • How Minnesota should deal with the budget deficit
    Former Republican Gov. Al Quie and former DFL Sen. Majority Leader Roger Moe offer advice on how to deal with the state's current $4.8 billion budget deficit, which could get even bigger when a new forecast comes out this week.Midday, February 27, 2009
  • Tax-free duds could be budget casualty in Minn.
    Minnesota is one of just a few states that don't tax clothing sales. But calls to extend the sales tax to clothes are expected to grow as state leaders confront a nearly $5 billion deficit.February 27, 2009
  • Many states consider tax hikes, spending cuts
    Minnesota, with a projected budget deficit of $5 billion over the next two years, is not alone. In fact, more than 30 states face projected budget gaps, thanks to the sagging economy.February 27, 2009
  • White Bear Lake residents wrestle with the state budget deficit
    Minnesota Public Radio held a forum on the state budget -- and how it affects one community, White Bear Lake.February 22, 2009
  • Even with stimulus, schools still making budget cuts
    The federal stimulus money for education won't keep schools from making their own local budget cuts in coming weeks.February 20, 2009
  • Minn. Dems ask public for ideas to fix $5B deficit
    Democrats who control the Minnesota Legislature are taking the state's $5 billion budget shortfall to the people in a series of town hall meetings that begin Thursday in Mankato, Rochester, St. Cloud and Willmar.February 18, 2009
  • Minn. officials say stimulus will ease budget pain
    With the U.S. House and Senate expected to vote soon on a $789 billion economic stimulus bill, officials at the Minnesota State Capitol are still trying to figure out what it means for them. Lawmakers held a meeting this afternoon to discuss how the money could be spent.February 12, 2009
  • Pawlenty warns deficit could hit $7 billion
    Gov. Tim Pawlenty is warning that since the economy is not improving, Minnesota's state budget deficit is likely to grow by $1 billion or more.February 11, 2009
Photo by AFP/Getty Images

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