It appears that the budget conferees have reached a tenative agreement on the 2010 budget.  The critical issue has been the amount of a hospital tax.  Below is a press release from Lt. Governor Phil Bryant confirming the "deal":

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                    

June 21, 2009 

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:                                                              

Mick Bullock 601-359-3200                           

MBULLOCK@SENATE.MS.GOV

www.ltgovbryant.com

 

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR BRYANT COMMENTS ON A FAIR AND RESPONSIBLE BUDGET

 

JACKSON – Today the Mississippi Senate and House leadership tentatively agreed upon a nearly $6 billion state budget for 2010. The issue of funding Medicaid with reoccurring revenue sources remains unresolved. However Lt. Governor Bryant was pleased with the progress emphasizing a budget that uses real numbers, does not anticipate the Governor having to make further cuts in general services for 2010, and moves $60 million forward to 2011.

 

“This budget has taken a lot of hard work and time but it has been worth the fight,” Lt. Governor Bryant commented. “The three principles that I have continued to talk about are a cornerstone to this balanced budget. Principles for a balanced budget include a need to use real numbers, does not force the Governor to make further cuts in basic services for 2010 and setting aside $60 million for 2011.

 

We are continuing our work to fund Medicaid at a reasonable amount. This is the last step in completing the budget process before the end of the fiscal year.  I appreciate the hard work and dedication of the Senate and House budget chairman through this very challenging process.”

 

The balanced budget was independently reviewed by the LBO (Legislative Budget Office) for its accuracy. The Mississippi Senate will reconvene at a time set by the Governor in his call to a special session. 
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I have heard from sources in the room with the negotiators that Senator Hob Bryan (D-Amory) got involved and was instrumental in reaching an agreement with the House negotiators.  THANKS Senator Bryan!  There is still work to be done, but it looks like Mississippi government will continue to operate after June 30, 2009.