Minnesota Management and Budget officials will release their newest snapshot of the state economy and budget on Dec. 5.

The twice-annual budget forecast gives state officials and legislators the most up-to-date look at the state economy and sets the projected budget surplus or deficit.

Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Jim Schowalter and his staff keep the forecast a closely-held secret until release day.

The state has emerged from the worst recession since the Great Depression, but the partial federal government shutdown and other financial uncertainty in Washington, D.C., could have been a drag on Minnesota's economy.