5-26-14 tax collections

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The latest figures from the Department of Revenue show state tax collections are lagging behind both last year's collections, as well as this year's expectations.  The state has collected $10.53 billion in taxes from July 1st through April. That's down 0.2 percent from the same period last year.  The state budget has built in 1 percent growth for this year, so falling short could hurt.  Governor Scott Walker and GOP lawmakers passed a more than $500 million tax cut bill in March. Walker says he's watching the numbers but isn't concerned, and the cuts could help stimulate the economy.  Joe Zepecki is spokesman for Democratic challenger Mary Burke. He says the latest numbers show Walker should have left the state with more of a cushion.