Fisher: Improved revenue outlook good but deficit persists

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — A new forecast from the state anticipates additional revenue of more than $200 million this fiscal year and next amid higher anticipated oil prices.

But Revenue Commissioner Sheldon Fisher says that even with the extra money, the state continues to face a deficit of more than $2.3 billion.

The state Revenue Department, in its spring forecast, expects an increase in unrestricted general fund revenue of about $255 million this year and about $210 million for the fiscal year starting July 1. Those increases compare to a department forecast released late last year.

Alaska law...