Arizona legislators continue talks on possible special session next week for budget action

Arizona leaders continue talks on special session

PHOENIX — Arizona legislative leaders say talks to arrange another special session on the state’s budget troubles could extend into early next week.

House Majority Leader John McComish said Friday that leaders continued to talk with members about what could be done during a special session contemplated for late next week.

Lawmakers want to reduce the current fiscal year shortfall from an estimated at $1.6 billion.

McComish wouldn’t say what’s being discussed. However, The Associated Press previously reported that possible topics include spending cuts, future tax cuts and ballot measures on Gov. Jan Brewer’s call for a temporary sales tax increase and temporarily loosening protections for voter-approved laws.

The special session would be the fourth this year.