HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) – Legislative leaders and Governor Corbett continue to express confidence that Pennsylvania will meet the June 30th budget deadline for the first time in years, even though the Senate Republican leader says a deal will have to get done today if that’s going to happen.

Legislative leaders and Governor Corbett met twice yesterday, but were unable to put the finishing touches on a new state budget agreement. Nonetheless, the governor emerged from the second meeting last evening brimming with confidence that the budget will get done on time.

“Hey, we’re way ahead of where they’ve been in the last few years – way ahead,” Corbett said.

Chester Republican Dominic Pileggi, the Senate majority leader, also remained upbeat about the prospect for an on time budget.

“I’m optimistic that we’re going to be able to finalize things and reach an agreement,” Pileggi said.

But Pileggi was also adamant that for the deadline to be met, he believes a deal must be struck today. One potential complication is a possible attempt by lawmakers to amend language authorizing natural gas drilling impact fees into one of the budget bills. Asked if that might trigger a veto, Corbett – who wants to wait on the issue — says “we’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

Reported by Tony Romeo, KYW Newsradio 1060