The leader of the state senate is looking for ways to cut one-half billion dollars out of the state’s spending program for the next fiscal year.  The legislature cut almost one-half billion dollars out of the budget last year.  And although state income is up, Senate leader Rob Mayer of Dexter wants to cut out another one-half billion dollars for the next budget. 

Let’s put it this way—Suppose your salary will go up three percent next year.  But suppose your mortgage payments will go up seven percent.  So, to pay your mortgage, you’re going to have to reduce your spending on other parts of the budget.  That’s the position Mayer says the state faces.        Mayer is a former senate appropriations chairman.  He says he has his ideas about cuts.  A handful of senators has its own proposals and has shown an ability to block votes on money bills they disagree with.  Mayer says he’s been negotiating with them.    

 Sens. Mayer and Dempsey news conference 22:37 mp3