NY GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES BUDGET AMENDMENTS

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Paterson says he "found" $1.2-billion

Governor David Paterson released his 21-day budget amendments Tuesday, and according to reports, the governor hopes to cover a $750-million budget shortfall through an extension of the federal stimulus program. 

The Albany Times Union is reporting that the governor expects the state to receive an additional $1.06 billion in federal stimulus money. 

The governor is also assuming some $162 million from higher license fees from large grocery stores that wish to sell wine. He proposes increasing payroll taxes in New York City to help pay for the Metropolitan Transit Authority. The amended budget would also cut  efficiency grants to localities from $10 million to $5 million.

With all these amendments, Paterson hopes to bring in an additional $1.2 billion.