| House and Senate pass budget |
| In the final version of the state budget
that was passed today by the House and the Senate medicaid was
spared, and education recieved slightly more than in last years
budget. The state's 5.3 billion dollar spending plan is for the fiscal year that begins July First. Democrats complained the budget doesn't do enough for education, even though it recieved more money than last years plan. They urged fellow senators to reconsider an increase in cigarette taxes. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Hugh Leatherman says there's not enough time or support to pass a tax increase this session. The bill goes to Governor 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. |