Panel to recommend fixes for Minn.'s budget woes

A new subcommittee will study Minnesota's budget problems and make recommendations when the Legislature convenes in February.

Top legislative Democrats say they are naming the panel to address a multibillion-dollar deficit anticipated for the state budget cycle that begins in 2011.

Legislative sessions in even-numbered years like 2010 usually do not focus on budgeting.

But lawmakers may be faced with budget decisions if a short-term deficit develops.

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Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller says he will push for more spending cuts and possible new state revenue.

That's how lawmakers sometimes describe taxes. Also on the table: Consolidating state agencies and reorganizing county governments.

The standoff over taxes between Democrats and Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty hasn't changed.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)