Gov: Won't hesitate to veto budget

Statement from Gov. Bev Perdue issued Saturday:

"Education is the hallmark of this state. Leaders before me have had the courage and the foresight to invest in our education system knowing it is what distinguishes North Carolina as one of the greatest states in the nation. I will carefully review the budget passed by the General Assembly, but believe me when I say: I will not be the first governor to abandon our schools, our community colleges and our university system. I am prepared to veto this budget if my review indeed shows what I fear – that North Carolina will move backwards under this budget plan."