Here's Otter's big news in his State of the State and budget speech: "I'm calling for a reduction in total General Fund spending of more than 7 percent from what initially was approved for Fiscal 2009. That reflects a realistic and thorough assessment of our needs and our capabilities. And I believe it reflects the kind of frugality and common sense that most Idahoans expect and deserve."

Furthermore, it includes a cut for public schools: 5.34 percent, an unprecedented move. Schools were exempted from Otter's mid-year budget holdbacks earlier this year. "There is the need for public schools to be included in the difficult realities of our economy as we plan for Fiscal 2010," the governor said. The proposal was met with silence.

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