Philadelphia » Most of the nation's governors -- including Utah's Jon Huntsman Jr. -- will meet with President-elect Barack Obama today at an Independence Hall summit to discuss ways the federal government can help cash-strapped states.

The recession has forced at least 41 states to deal with budget shortfalls. Utah has already plugged a $354 million hole with spending cuts and funding shifts during a September special legislative session.

Utah's political leaders are already discussing slashing government programs more. And on Thursday, Huntsman plans to unveil his budget for the next fiscal year, which is expected to include cuts in every department.

Obama said a stimulus plan, projected to cost between $500 billion and $700 billion, will be his first priority when he gets sworn in on Jan. 20. While releasing few details, Obama said his plan would boost state-run Medicaid funding and offer billions of dollars for road and bridge construction.

That's exactly what the governors are asking for.

"Without federal help, we will need to continue to cut budgets and raise taxes," said Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell, chairman of the National Governors Association. He said the stimulus plan would help the most needy receive medical coverage, while also creating jobs in the lagging construction sector.

Rendell and other governors met with congressional leaders Monday in Washington, D.C., to push for the stimulus package. They have the support of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who said she hopes to have the bill ready for Obama's signature by Inauguration Day.

Huntsman did not attend that meeting, but he expressed early support for a stimulus plan that includes road funding and helps those in dire financial situations.

"It is important to bridge gaps to the most vulnerable among us, and federal cooperation will be essential," said Huntsman spokeswoman Lisa Roskelley.

At least 40 governors plan to attend the meeting today with Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden. The meeting will take place on the first floor of Congress Hall, where the U.S. House of Representatives met for its first 10 years.

mcanham@sltrib.com