January 7, 2009 Rell: Cuts must be made, they will be deep Play video

(NECN: Hartford, Conn.) - The 2009 Connecticut legislative session is underway in Hartford. Republican Governor M. Jodi Rell gave her annual State of the State address at noon before a joint session of both chambers.

The state budget deficit is estimated at $343 million for this fiscal year and $6 billion for the two years that begin next July 1.

"We must never lose sight of the fact that Connecticut remains a great place...our quality of life is second to none," said Rell. "Our hearts are generous."

"We lead the nation, and sometimes the world, in so many areas," said the governor.

"The sacrifices will not be easy or painless," said Rell. "The cuts must be made, and they will be deep and they will affect every agency, every program, every service provided by state government."

Click here for Part 1 of Rell's speech.

Click here for Part 3 of Rell's address.