New Orleans city officials are racing to convince state leaders this week to approve a quick cash-infusion and otherwise leave it to the city to manage its fiscal crisis without state intervention, as the city faces down a $160 million budget deficit and an immediate cash shortfall.

Here are five things to know about the deficit and how officials are responding to it:

1. How much is the deficit?

The city is short $160 million in this year's budget, according to the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. Officials approved a 2025 general fund budget of $878 million. The city is also facing an immediate cash shortage that will threaten payroll next month without an immediate fix.

2. How are state officials trying to get involved?

State leaders will consider on Wednesday whether to appoint a f

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