NASHVILLE, Tenn. - If Congress slashes the Tennessee state budget, officials have a plan of action.
The state Department of Finance and Administration released plans on Tuesday that show what would happen if there's a 15% or 30% reduction in the amount of money the state gets from the Federal Government.
Kelvin Meeks is the Assistant Commissioner of Adult and Family Services.
He told Nashville's News 2 if Congress does reduce the state's federal funds by as much as 30% Tennessee agencies would have to cut more than 5,000 jobs.
"It's never a high point to have to think about cutting staff because these are real lives and real people," Meeks said.
Officials at the Tennessee Department of Human Services said despite the potential cuts, they are prepared for the outcome.
"It's actually refreshing we've got a governor that's taking this route with us instead of just getting a notice that your going to receive 30% cuts. We're getting a chance to be thoughtful about it," Meeks said.
Though however well prepared the agency may be, Meeks said it will still be difficult.
"Our programs serve those that are most in need and the improvised," he said.
The plans come as Congress is considering more than a trillion dollars in cuts to the federal budget.
Tennessee's expanded Medicaid program would also have to make $2.2 billion in cuts if Congress reduces the state's federal funds.
Click here to for more information on the proposed cuts.
*The Associated Press contributed to this report.
