Okla. governor, Legislature close to budget deal

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Legislative leaders and officials in Gov. Mary Fallin's office say they expect to announce a deal on Monday on how to divvy up Oklahoma's $6.6 billion budget.

House Speaker Kris Steele and Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman met with the governor's office until about 6 p.m. Friday to hammer out the final details of the budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Steele says discussions have been "very productive" and that he expects they will present a budget to their respective caucuses on Monday. Bingman added that all three sides are close to an agreement.

Collections to the state's general revenue fund have exceeded estimates by more than $350 million, but legislative leaders have warned agencies to prepare for a flat budget next year