House, Senate Agree On S.C. Budget

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Medicare was spared but education took a hit in the final version of the state budget that was passed today by the House and the Senate.

The state's $5.3 billion spending plan is for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

While the federal health care program for the poor and elderly was largely spared, public school and college spending was cut, and most state agencies will have fewer dollars to spend.

Democrats complained the budget doesn't do enough for education. They urged fellow senators to reconsider an increase in cigarette taxes.

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Hugh Leatherman said there is not enough time or support to pass a tax increase this session.

The bill goes to Gov. Mark Sanford. He will have five days to decide what, if anything, he doesn't like. The House and Senate expect to return two weeks after Thursday's mandatory adjournment to deal with any vetoes.