Baldacci signs supplemental budget

See also: Democrats’ version of the budget passed;  Republicans on the budget and Democrats on the budget

Gov. John Baldacci signed the supplemental budget package shortly after the Legislature approved it Monday night.

His statement: “This has been a difficult budget process. Maine has been forced to deal with a $190 million revenue downturn caused by a struggling national economy. The decisions have been difficult, but the end product is a reasonable and responsible budget that puts us on firmer financial footing moving forward.”

Baldacci noted that the budget contained no new taxes and did not dip into the state’s rainy day fund.

He added: “Our economy remains uncertain. The Legislature has acted prudently and put us in a better position to weather this national economic storm. We have prioritized State spending and restructured government to make it more affordable, and we will continue to work toward better, more efficient ways for government to fulfill its responsibilities.”

Part of Baldacci’s actions included a technical maneuver. In order for the budget to take effect 90 days from Monday, the Legislature needed to adjourn. Gov. Baldacci approved the adjournment, and then immediately ordered a special session to begin Tuesday at 10 a.m.