Final budget stands only $46 million away from deficit

To paraphrase Dirty Harry: I know what you're thinking. "Did lawmakers truly balance the budget and build in enough flexibility to deal with economic turmoil in Europe and an uncertain U.S. economy, or are we one forecast away from another special session?" Seeing how this is a $31.1 billion budget, balanced using accounting changes and reversions while leaving only a $46 million unrestricted ending fund balance, you've got to ask yourself one question: Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, taxpayer? . . . READ MORE