Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback’s top budget adviser says the administration has identified $101 million in savings to help the state reduce a $238 million budget shortfall predicted for July 2016.
Budget Director Shawn Sullivan said Thursday the savings are in addition to efforts by seven major state agencies to review programs to find efficiencies.
Sullivan discussed the initiatives amid a debate over income tax cuts enacted at Brownback’s urging. The Republican is seeking re-election and Democratic challenger Paul Davis argues the cuts are wrecking the state’s finances.
Sullivan said the state is standardizing computer systems and lowering prescription drug costs in various programs. It also has lower-than-expected costs in state employees’ health plan, is refinancing Statehouse renovation bonds and is working with federal officials to collect debts.
