Carcieri to unveil budget on WPRI 12

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island Gov. Don Carcieri gets ready to unveil his plan for closing a massive budget deficit equal to almost 11 percent of expected state spending.

Carcieri plans to unveil his plan tonight during a 7 p.m. televised address.

His plan seeks to close an estimated $357 million shortfall for the year ending in June. Fiscal experts for the General Assembly expect an even larger deficit next year.

Democratic lawmakers say Carcieri has not yet briefed them on
his proposals.

The governor has said he opposes raising personal income, sales or business taxes. He has warned cities and towns to prepare for cuts in state aid.