Stop me if you’ve heard this before.

They think they are close to a budget deal in Harrisburg. Honest. Try not to laugh.

It’s only the third or fourth time our elected officials have made such a statement.

Hey, what’s the rush? I mean, the budget is only now more than three months overdue. Lots of people have been inconvenienced. Critical social agencies across the state have gone without the state aid that makes their work possible.

Gov. Ed Rendell, who was last seen over the weekend chastising members of his own party for throwing a wrench into the latest deal, yesterday once again said he believes a deal is close.

My guess is the governor plays horseshoes. “Close” works in that backyard game. It’s not nearly as effective when it comes to the work of crafting a state fiscal plan.

Rendell yesterday urged lawmakers to “take a deep breath” and meet with him today to close the deal.

We have a better idea. Why don’t they try holding their breath. Like much of the rest of the state has been doing for the past 100 days.

When they’re as red-faced as the critical care agencies whose work has been paralyzed, maybe then they’ll get a deal done.

Just don’t be surprised if you hear about the deal falling apart later this afternoon.