ALBANY -- Gov. David Paterson on Tuesday again said New York state government faces an economic crisis and as proof said the projected budget deficit for 2009-10 fiscal year has increased more than $1 billion — to $6.4 billion — since April.

So he's calling the Legislature back "from vacation" for a special emergency economic session on Aug. 19 to cut spending, stem falling revenues, and protect New Yorkers from rising property taxes and heating bills this winter.

"It's simple," Paterson said in a rare statewide televised address for a governor. "Costs are rising steadily and revenues are dropping dramatically."

"These times call for action and today I promise you there will be action," Paterson said.

Paterson, however, didn't make any specific orders. He also didn't call for some of the drastic measures other states have already taken, including layoffs and cuts to health programs for the poor and to schools. He said he prefers to work with the Legislature to turn back the "crisis." He said details will be released as soon as Wednesday.

For the complete story, including reaction from leaders around the state, see Wednesday's edition of The Citizen.