FLASHPOINT for Oct 23, 2007

By Jon Ralston (contact)

Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007 | 7:04 a.m.

So here's the way it should work: Gov. Jim Gibbons should call a special session to deal with the budget crisis. The only agenda item - and this is his sole discretion - would read: "Possible ways to deal with looming budget shortfall." The governor would then present his cuts to the Gang of 63. Lawmakers would have to decide whether they agree with his reductions, want to make different ones, want to redirect revenue or want to raise taxes to fill the gaps. They could consider changing the law governing the rainy day fund to make it easier to tap. Passionate arguments could ensue for each perspective. It could be a sensational, deep, thoughtful debate. Or: The governor could just make mindless across-the-board cuts without calling a special session.