13 June 2005

Governor comments on May revenues and State’s economic health

“The May revenue figures put an exclamation point on the conclusion that the state is in the best financial condition we’ve known for the past five years. Kansans should be pleased with this progress, and expect more.

“This Administration has worked hard to control spending, to carefully manage the budget process, and to make sure that we benefit from the fruits of the Kansas Economic Growth Act.

“Tomorrow, at my request, the Consensus Revenue Estimates group will meet to reconsider the figures it reached in April. The $75 million increase in May revenues is truly heartening and offers further evidence that the state’s economy continues its steady progress. More good jobs are being created every month, and this is great news for the state in challenging times.

“At the same time, we must remember that these numbers remain estimates that merely update previous figures. We need to be cautious, especially given that Wichita layoffs do cast something of a shadow on future gains.

“I want to thank Senate President Steve Morris for calling together the Consensus Revenue Estimating group and its members for taking on this task on short notice. It simply makes good sense to have the most accurate numbers as we work together to address the question of how to fund the best possible schools for all Kansas children.”