Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

CNMI budget cuts of over 8 percent likely

Posted at 01:57 on 24 September, 2012 UTC

Government agencies in the Northern Marianas may have to absorb across-the-board cuts of over 8 percent, more than the 5 percent earlier anticipated, to help balance the territory’s budget.

The House and Senate both have to approve the final budget by the end of this month.

The House Ways and Means Committee chair Ray Basa says the over 8 percent across-the-board budget cut is needed to cover the $4 million in additional spending wanted.

If a new budget is not passed and signed into law by September the 30th the government will have to immediately partially shut down until a spending package is in place.

When a partial shutdown happens, over 1,400 public servants temporarily lose their jobs.