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Williams, Beshear debate gambling, tax reform

Associated Press - November 18, 2009 8:24 PM ET

Corrected Version

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) - Kentucky's Democratic governor and Republican Senate president have offered their views for helping make up the $1 billion projected budget deficit during the next two years.

Sen. David Williams of Burkesville says tax reform and a more streamlined government should be the focus of Kentucky leaders, not gambling. Williams and Gov. Steve Beshear spoke to local officials at the Kentucky Association of Counties conference Wednesday in Louisville.

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports Williams expects lawmakers and the governor likely will have to reduce government agencies through attrition and some job cuts.

Beshear said tax reform is harder during recession, because the working class could suffer an additional burden. Beshear says his plan for slot machines could generate several hundred million dollars in revenue for the state and help the horse industry.

Information from: Lexington Herald-Leader, http://www.kentucky.com

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