Governor Plans $63M In Budget Changes

Republican Gov. Sam Brownback’s administration has outlined nearly $63 million in adjustments to Kansas’ current budget.

The measures unveiled Thursday take advantage of unanticipated federal funds, unused agency funds and lower-than-expected spending by state agencies to lessen the chances of a deficit next year.

Brownback told The Associated Press in an exclusive interview that he is trying to ensure that Kansas residents don’t see any effects on government services. Budget Director Shawn Sullivan was having a Thursday afternoon news conference to announce the adjustments.

The biggest change is the addition of nearly $18 million in federal funds for health coverage for children during the fiscal year beginning this month. Sullivan said the federal government increased funding for such coverage in late June, allowing the state to reduce its own spending.