(RALEIGH)- While North Carolina is seeing $150 million more in revenue than expected, Governor Easley says that's not enough to keep up with the state's growth, so his budget proposal includes several cuts. However, the Governor says despite a downturn in the economy, he's not willing to see an educational downturn.

(RALEIGH)- The State Employees Association is not happy with the 1.5% raise Governor Easley is recommending in his budget for state workers. He started his budget news conference off by praising the state transportation department workers who helped clear roads after the tornados in eastern North Carolina. But Ardis Watkins with the State Employees Association says he then ignored them by offering a 1.5% cost of living raise and a one time $1 thousand bonus.