Wrap: Although economic growth was not as high as expected in 2012, Nixon's administration planned the 2013 budget around a strong economy.

 Budget Director Linda Luebbering says if the state had more money, they would not cut education funds.  

Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee said they were concerned some of this legislation will not pass.  

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Stacey Kafka.

Wrap: Cuts to appropriations for higher education for fiscal year 2013 total more than fifteen percent.

These cuts combined with cuts from the last three years will return funds appropriated for higher education to the same rate as 1997.  

Budget Chair Linda Luebbering says these cuts are something the governor's office would like to avoid.

In addition to appropriation cuts in higher education, the 2013 budget appropriates less money for scholarships.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Stacey Kafka.

Wrap: The proposed change would impose a $1 flat gambling rate.

As new casinos open on the Kansas side of the Kansas City border, lawmakers from the Kansas City area said they were concerned people would gamble in Kansas instead.

Budget director Linda Luebbering says this is one reason they expect gambling revenue to decrease.  

Although revenue from gambling is expected to go down, the budget expects $20 million in gaming revenue.

Funds collected from this flat gambling fee will go towards building a new Veteran's home.  

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Stacey Kafka.