Updated revenue estimates show depth of national recession

 Statement from Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal

“The updated revenue estimates are more evidence of the negative impact of the national recession on Iowa workers, communities and businesses.

“Many Iowans across our state have lost their jobs. Many families are struggling to make ends meet. Everybody is cutting back, including state government. That’s why are keeping our focus on budgeting responsibly and putting our state’s fiscal house back in order.

“Today’s updated estimates are also further evidence that Governor Culver made the right call in October when he cut the state budget by 10 percent in response to a deepening national recession.

“As we continue to prepare for the 2010 session, we will redouble our efforts to balance next year’s state budget responsibly without raising taxes, and to build a new foundation for prosperity in every Iowa community. That means:

· Helping create good-paying jobs that will strengthen and expand Iowa’s middle class.

· Protecting services and educational opportunities for unemployed workers, as well as services for children and the most vulnerable Iowans.

· Continuing to listen to our constituents to ensure that the best ideas are being used to improve government services and balance the budget responsibly in these tough economic times.”