Gov. to address budget in annual Ohio update

Gov. Ted Strickland is expected to discuss the state budget and education reform at noon today in his annual State of the State address in Columbus.

“He has said for some time that he was going to address the education needs of the state,” said Patricia Myers, director of government relations. “He focused on higher education the last time, and he’ll focus on K through 12 this year.”

Kathleen Chandler, state representative for the 68th House District, said she anticipates Strickland will talk about his requests to the federal government and President Barack Obama for additional state funding, as well as school funding. She also expects him to discuss the economy and the job stimulus package.

The state predicts a budget shortfall between $733 million and $1.9 billion in the current two-year budget through 2009, the Associated Press reported Jan. 24.

“We have real issues with unemployment compensation, Medicaid and the high unemployment rate,” Chandler said.

Myers said Strickland’s address will give clues about next year’s state budget, which she said is expected to be released next Monday.

President Lester Lefton, in a meeting with Daily Kent Stater editors, said today might be when the governor announces any additional cuts to the university’s budget.

Check out KentNewsNet throughout the day for updates.

Contact news editor Christina Stavale at [email protected].

Contact administration reporter Nicole Stempak at [email protected].