POST FALLS - Idaho state Sen. Jim Hammond told those attending Saturday's Panhandle Coalition meeting here that Idaho schools won't see budget cuts in this year.

But next year, schools can expect it, he told about 30 people who attended the meeting. The meeting was conducted at the Post Falls Senior Center, at 1215 E. Third Ave.

Hammond, a Post Falls Republican, said the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee passed a permanent 7.1 percent cut in this year's state budget. Hammond sits on the committee.

"For the majority party these cuts are just as devastating," Hammond said. "Maybe we're not voicing that as much as we should. It's no easier for us folks, but somebody has to do it."

To save schools from mid-year cuts this year, the committee decided to use budget stabilization and public education stabilization funds along with federal economic recovery funds.

Idaho state Rep. Bob Nonini, R-Coeur d'Alene, told attendees that school district officials now are seeking more flexibility with their spending, as cuts are visible on the horizon.

Districts would like to be able to put more money in general fund accounts for operations, and be less obligated to put required amounts in specific accounts.

"I think (that request) has got some good support" in the Legislature, Nonini said.

Hammond said in an interview after the meeting that the Idaho Department of Correction was spared almost all of a $10.5 million cut this year. It received $8.2 million, most of which came from state funds, and some federal recovery funds.

"Some went to corrections to ensure a certain level of safety," Hammond said. There are no guarantees about next year, he said.

Idaho state Sen. John Goedde, R-Coeur d'Alene, and Rep. Frank Henderson, R-Post Falls, also attended the meeting.

The next Panhandle Coalition meeting is at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Lake City Senior Center, at 1916 N. Lakewood Drive, in Coeur d'Alene.