LAS VEGAS " Gov. Jim Gibbons says a stimulus bill being considering in Congress could ease the state's budget crisis.
In a letter released late Thursday, Gibbons told legislators that Nevada could see up to $1.3 billion in federal funds for education and infrastructure, if the bill introduced in the House becomes law.
The Republican governor says that money could result in a "partial or full reversal" of the dramatic budget cuts he has proposed.
Gibbons is seeking a 36 percent cut in higher education spending and pay cuts for state workers. He also wants to raise taxes on hotel rooms as part of a plan to make up for a budget shortage.
Democratic leaders in Congress hope to pass the $825 billion stimulus bill by mid-February. They have met with resistance from House Republicans.