Revenue department projecting $3 billion windfall in 2008

In its latest state revenue forecast, the state Revenue Department predicted the state would collect $3 billion more than expected this year because of record-setting high oil prices. And next year’s forecast is expected to be substantially more than what the administration expects to spend.The House and Senate Finance Committees have scheduled a joint budget meeting for Thursday -- with plans to hear from the administration and the legislative finance director on the governor’s proposed budget.Dave Donaldson, APRN - Juneau