COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio’s budget director says the Republican state auditor’s questioning of Ohio’s financial condition hurts confidence in the state during tough economic times.

Budget Director Pari Sabety told lawmakers today that Ohio’s finances are in good condition. Auditor Mary Taylor says Democratic Gov. Ted Strickland’s administration’s failure to provide necessary financial information has kept her from being able to conduct an audit.

Sabety says the first-time use of complicated state payroll and accounting software has delayed the process. She says Ohio is on track to be faster than other states using similar payroll systems.

Sabety says “exaggerated” claims hurt confidence at a time when Ohio is trying to raise money through bonds.