Austin, USA - Governor Rick Perry's office says the state has money to pay for caring for children removed from a polygamist ranch -- without sacrificing other services.
Money set aside for County Essential Services Grants can be used to help with legal costs at the discretion of Perry. State emergency funds also could be used.
Legislators today started adding up costs related to the April raid on a polygamist sect's West Texas ranch.
Lawmakers held a hearing in Austin to figure out where to find the expected $30 million the case will eventually cost over the next year.
More than 460 children were removed from the compound near Eldorado amid concerns of possible abuse.
Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Albert Hawkins says it will cost about $1.7 million per month for Texas to care for the youngsters, who are in foster homes.