FRANKFORT — Forecasters slashed another $171 million from the state's General Fund estimate this year, which will prompt another round of budget cuts that could hit education.

        The preliminary forecasts for the coming two years will mean a spare cupboard for the General Assembly's budget-makers.

        The Consensus Forecasting Group's revision means total cuts from the spending plan first put together by the 2000 legislature will approach $500 million, the largest shortfall in a decade.

        Budget Director James Ramsey said actual spending cuts could be greater because some revenue receipts have to be shared.

        “Our budget shortfall will be a little bit over $500 million,” Mr. Ramsey said.

        The state has already taken $120 million from its rainy-day account, captured money from miscellaneous funds across state government and cut appropriations.

        Mr. Ramsey said the administration will try to spare education appropriations, which make up nearly two-thirds of General Fund spending. And he said staffing could suffer.

        “Certainly, we don't want any layoffs. But it's just too early to tell,” he said.

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