House leaders say OK to Barbour cutting power

House leaders say OK to Barbour cutting power

In a nod to dire budget times, House leaders have agreed to give Gov. Haley Barbour the cutting authority he has requested to balance the current fiscal year.

The House Appropriations Committee will take up the measure at a committee meeting scheduled to meet shortly after the House convenes at 2 p.m. today.

“This will free him up to do his job,” said Rep. Johnny Stringer, who chairs the committee.

Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant has said previously that he supports giving Barbour that authority.

Clarion Ledger
1/5/10