Department Of Economic Development Coping With Demand For Further Cuts

The Economic Development Department is being told to cut another $7.2-Million to deal with the state’s budget crisis. Economic Development Director Joe Driskill says that would force the Department to cut some very important services. But, Representative Lanie Black of Poplar Bluff, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee on Economic Development, says choices are limited. During a hearing of the Committee at the State Capitol, Black said the possibility of raising taxes exists, but he believes Missourians have made it clear they do not consider that an option in dealing with the budget woes.