Ward Does Not Rule Out a Tax Hike

State Representative John Ward says he is grateful for the federal stimulus money. That help will reduce the two year revenue shortfall facing Minnesota to just over $4.5 billion dollars, according to state finance officials. Ward tells KLKS News, lawmakers will have to be careful in crafting the final budget, because strings are attached to the federal money. He says the DFL caucus will consider cuts, shifts, and new revenue. Ward says all options need to be on the table. He calls it a work in progress, and may not be put to bed until the session adjourns in mid May.