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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) The North Dakota Legislature's Democratic leaders say they like what they hear about Republican Gov. John Hoeven's budget plan.

But Rep. Merle Boucher and Sen. David O'Connell say they're cautious because of the national economic slump.

Hoeven gave his State of the State speech on Tuesday, during the first day of the 2009 Legislature. The governor made a new pitch for his $7.7 billion budget proposal. It includes higher spending for education, health care and economic development.

Boucher and O'Connell say they share some of the governor's priorities. For example, Hoeven wants to broaden eligibility for state-subsidized health insurance for children in low-income families.

But Boucher says lawmakers have to be careful in drafting the budget because state revenues could take a big hit from lower oil and crop prices.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-06-09 1536CST | save this article / add to your favorites list