Gibbons splits with anti-waste panel on state fees

Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons says he disagrees with his government efficiency panel over the wisdom of raising state fees on businesses.

Gibbons acknowledges that many fees businesses pay to obtain licenses or other services do not cover the costs to the state, but he says "now is not the time" to fix the problem.

He says any increases would hurt companies struggling in a weak economy.

Gibbons made the comment Thursday at a meeting of the Spending and Government Efficiency Commission. The Republican created the panel last year and charged it with finding ways the state can save money.

In December, the commission recommended that all state agencies should review fees every two years to ensure that taxpayers aren't subsidizing services provided to businesses.