State legislators are being urged to increase taxes, in order to avoid painful budget cuts.

Representatives of more than 60 advocacy groups were at the Capitol Tuesday to stress the growing needs of children, families, and those who are down on their luck in these tough times. Ed Huck with the Wisconsin Alliance of Cities says targeted tax increases need to be considered, with the state budget deficit now topping $6.5 billion. Huck says the first place to look should be areas with current exemptions.

Jim Moser of the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families also says spending cuts alone won't be enough. He says the governor and legislators need to consider targeted tax hikes.

AUDIO: John Colbert reports (MP3 :38)

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