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West Virginia Reports Tax Collections Again Below Estimates

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) – West Virginia tax authorities say the state collected almost $330 million in December and $1.86 billion for the first six months of the current fiscal year, both lower than budget estimates.

The Department of Revenue reports shortfalls of $6.7 million for the month and $98.2 million for the six-month period in the current $4.1 billion budget.

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has taken steps to close this year’s shortfalls, ordering a 2 percent budget cut for most West Virginia government agencies.

Secretary of Revenue Robert Kiss says Tomblin, who leaves office this month, will propose on Wednesday a budget for next year that would close a projected $400 million deficit.

Deputy Secretary Mark Muchow says taxes on mining, drilling and timber rose in December reflecting higher natural gas prices.