MINNESOTA ECONOMIC FORECAST REVERSAL

Minnesota state economists released the budget forecast on Friday. The forecast said the state is $373-Million less than what it needs for its $34.5-Billion two year budget. House Minority Leader Marty Seifert said last November's forecast showed a $2.2-Billion surplus and state government needs to economize. Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller said the Governor should call a special session and allow lawmakers to pass a $645-Million bonding bill to build roads next spring and add jobs and taxpayers. Pogemiller said Minnesota has lost jobs this year and state government needs to spend more. Minnesota's unemployment rate is 4.7%, the same as that reported by US Labor officials.