CARSON CITY - Gov. Jim Gibbons announced today that a special session of the Nevada legislature, originally scheduled to begin Monday, will instead begin Friday, June 27.

In announcing the delay, Gibbons said that new unemployment numbers and "much more new information" released today reinforces the need for a special session.

"I believe it's prudent to give lawmakers and the staff from the Executive and Legislative branches the time to let this information sink in," said Gibbons. "A brief delay to the Special Session will also give lawmakers the opportunity to work together with me and my office as we seek consensus on a comprehensive solution to our unprecedented budget shortfall."

Gibbons originally announced June 13 that he would call for a special session to begin June 23.

Since then he has faced increased hostility over the idea of a special session, largely from Democratic lawmakers, and criticism for both his motives and his efforts to prepare for the session.

Gibbons was scheduled to issue the executive order for the special session and give a televised address Sunday. Gibbons did not reveal what day he will issue the order instead, but did say his televised address will likely occur Thursday.