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Whitmer says budget deal could still avert worst effects of cuts

Governor Gretchen Whitmer says she’s hopeful talks with the Legislature’s GOP leaders could soon lead to a new budget deal. An agreement could restore many of her line-item vetoes and other budget cuts.

The cuts are proving to be very unpopular in areas represented by Republicans, as well as areas represented by Democrats.

The state’s fiscal year began almost a month ago. But the governor says there is still time to reverse the cuts in time to avert the effects to county jails, rural healthcare, and autism services for children. But she says that requires an agreement either this week or next.

“I think it’s very possible. When determined, we can do a lot in a very short period of time.”

The governor said this just after addressing a cyber-security conference. She said more money to protect the private information of people who do business with the state should also be part of a new budget deal.