FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky’s legislative leaders warned Monday of the severe challenges to crafting a new state budget as the coronavirus shrinks state tax collections and inflicts other economic damage.
House and Senate budget negotiators began the task of seeking agreement on a two-year state budget — the centerpiece of their work in the days remaining in a legislative session shortened by the virus.
The conferees met as other lawmakers were back home for a weeklong break that will continue until they reconvene Thursday.
House Speaker David Osborne and Senate President Robert Stivers warned that a contracting economy due to efforts to contain the virus’ spread will hurt tax revenue collections.
