The public will get a chance next week to comment on the governor's proposal to close a $140 million gap in the current state budget.

The Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee will begin a series of hearings at 10:30 a.m. Monday. Lawmakers will review proposed cuts to the Department of Transportation, Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Corrections on Monday.

Gov. John Baldacci is proposing a series of cuts to close the gap in the budget that covers state expenses through June 30. He is proposing to eliminate 94 state positions, 40 of which are filled, and he wants to use $45 million from the state's reserve accounts.

The budget also carries forward cuts in aid to local schools, the community colleges, and the state university system.

Hearings are scheduled Monday through Wednesday in room 228 of the Statehouse. The full Legislature is scheduled to reconvene on Wednesday.