Quote Originally Posted by Lloyd Dunkelberger, Herald-Tribune
TALLAHASSEE - Facing historic budget shortfalls, Senate leaders are preparing for deep cuts in basic state services, ranging from schools to health care to prisons.

Senate President Jeff Atwater told the Senate that for the first time in 20 years, the state's main revenue sources -- sales tax and corporate income taxes -- have simultaneously plunged as a result of the economic recession.

The governor has already ordered state agencies to cut spending by 4 percent.

The agencies have also been ordered to develop budget plans showing a 10 percent cut in spending.

Crist confirmed that he is considering merging agencies to eliminate management positions.

He called the agency merger idea a "serious one," and added that "it's something I think that's worth looking at if it can still give us the ability to provide services but do it more efficiently."

Crist was speaking to the Florida Sheriffs Association.
Click here for the full story.