In his first trip back to the Statehouse since his near-fatal car crash in April, Governor Jon Corzine met with Democratic leaders to work out details on the state?s budget.

Everyone at the budget meeting said they are very close to finalizing the budget by the June 30 deadline. They also said they are in much better shape than last year.

One of the major issues still left to work out in the more than $33 billion budget is state funding for hospital charity care. Those state funds go to hospitals to care for people who can?t afford care or don?t have insurance. The governor?s budget calls for $580 million in funding, but that number could increase. Lawmakers wouldn?t go into details on where the extra money would come from, but did say there would be no new taxes or fees.

Meanwhile, Corzine said his physical therapy sessions will keep his trips to the Statehouse limited.

Lawmakers hope to have the final budget ready for votes by mid-June.

For a news conference with Governor Corzine, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO extra.