AP Source: Paterson, leaders to meet on budget

A state official says that Gov. David
Paterson and legislative leaders will meet publicly for the first
time in months to hash out a state budget that’s now seven weeks
late.
    The official familiar with the decision spoke on condition of
anonymity because the meeting on Tuesday hasn’t yet been announced
to the public and rank-and-file lawmakers.
    Paterson said earlier Monday that although there are no plans
for layoffs to address a $9 billion deficit, his administration is
discussing the possibility.
    He says he’s waiting for a judge to act on a lawsuit by public
employee unions trying block his order for the furlough for about
100,000 workers.
    The Democrat also says he expects many school budgets will be
rejected because voters are saying public spending must be cut and
tough decisions are needed.