Beshear calls for additional budget cuts

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Most state agencies could face additional 6 percent budget cuts to help offset a projected $161 million revenue shortfall.

Kerri Richardson, spokeswoman for Gov. Steve Beshear, said the administration is now gathering information on the potential impacts of the budget cuts.

State Budget Director Mary Lassiter sent letters to the heads of most government agencies on Friday alerting them to potential reductions in funding.

Richardson said the Medicaid program would be shielded from any additional cuts. Public schools, state unversities, community colleges, and the teacher retirement system also are among a short list of agencies and programs that would be spared.

Richardson said the administration is being prudent by planning for the potential budget cuts.