The budget battle continues in Lansing while the clock ticks down to possible government shutdown
(AP) -- Michigan lawmakers are back in the Capitol struggling to pass a state budget before next week's deadline.
The House or Senate on Friday could end up approving a temporary continuation of the current budget to avoid a partial shutdown of state government in six days. There is a $2.8 billion deficit in the budget year starting Oct. 1.
Progress on the budget has slowed because legislators disagree over the level of some spending cuts. Some are calling for tax increases to save college scholarships and soften cuts to healthcare, prisons, local governments and social services.
Cuts ultimately will be OK'd throughout the government. But it is a matter of how severe they will be. Key conference committees are scheduled to meet throughout the day.
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