Commerce Department Cuts: Schweitzer Says Budget Concern Behind Four Job Cuts

HELENA – Gov. Brian Schweitzer says budget concerns are behind a decision to cut four Commerce Department jobs.

The administration says more "austerity measures" could be coming. The governor says he has directed his administration to find saving measures wherever possible.

The state announced Wednesday that four regional development officers have been told the jobs will be eliminated by year's end. Schweitzer says the move will save $380,000.

The jobs were located in Helena, Missoula, Circle and Havre.

Tax collections have consistently been coming in below original estimates. Analysts have said the shortfall could eventually eat away at the $282.4 million cushion built into the state budget.