Texas' budgetary structure, Piferrer added, gives money managers some flexibility in dealing with the monumental child custody case.

Texas is a biennial budget state that convenes its legislature every other year.

When lawmakers meet in January, they will be crafting a spending plan for 2010-11. This year's biennial budget is $153 billion. The 2009-10 money, while allocated, has not yet been spent.

Budget options

It could be that budget adjustments are made next year to cover what has already been spent by agencies as a result of the raid and to cover projected costs down the road, Piferrer said.

"There are a couple different options that Texas has available," she said.

The governor can also call a special session if necessary to deal with budget issues.

Whatever the case, Piferrer said the state has pledged its full financial support to help entities affected by the FLDS situation.

"At the end of the day, when this is complete, we will do everything in our power to make sure those communities will not feel a crippling financial burden."

---

E-mail: bwest@desnews.com; amyjoi@desnews.com