Gov. Brian Schweitzer says Montana ended the fiscal year with nearly $340 million in the bank, making it one of just eight states that don't face a shortfall going into the next fiscal year.

Schweitzer and Republicans in the legislature fought over projected end fund balances, as they set a budget for the next two fiscal years that started on July 1. Schweitzer was confident the numbers would be higher than Republicans predicted and he chided the GOP for not adequately funding education.

Republicans have said they weren't interested in spending any more money, even if it was available.

Schweitzer said Thursday that Montana recently received a AA-plus credit rating, the state's first upgrade in 30 years.

Associated Press

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