January 1, 2009 – Governor's Weekly Radio Address - Budget and Financial Plan

"I recently submitted my biennium budget and six-year financial plan to the state Legislature.  The budget reflects the realities of the unprecedented economic environment facing our state, while maintaining the fiscally prudent principles my Administration has implemented over the past six years. 

Our priorities have been to cut costs, reduce taxes, preserve both essential services and the well-being of residents, while ensuring a balanced budget, as required by the State Constitution.

This year, difficult but necessary decisions have to be made to reduce overall spending.  We cannot operate in a business-as-usual fashion.  Through shared sacrifices, we can ensure we continue to live within our means and remain focused on areas of long-term importance to our state. 

The bright side of the challenges before us is the opportunity to work together with a collective sense of responsibility for the well-being of our neighbors in order for our economy and our state to remain strong in the years ahead."