politics

Revised budget adjustment removes obstacle as Maine lawmakers try to wrap up work

Font size+Author:Stellar Sphere news portalSource:business2024-05-21 10:07:04I want to comment(0)

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — The Democratic-led Maine Legislature’s spending committee revised its budget p

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — The Democratic-led Maine Legislature’s spending committee revised its budget proposal Monday in response to complaints from both Republicans and the Democratic governor, removing a late obstacle as lawmakers try to wrap up their work this week.

The revision came after criticism over its earlier decision to divert money from the highway fund and roll back pension tax breaks for retirees.

Highway funding and the pension benefit were restored on Monday, and Democratic Gov. Janet Mills said the new version had her seal of approval despites concerns that lawmakers’ proposed spending went beyond her proposed budget update.

The governor has warned that revenue is expected to level off and proposed setting aside $100 million for the next budget cycle.

“Her administration will have to take a hard look at the budget at the start of the next legislative session to make sure that the state of Maine is able to meet its commitments, both in the short- and long-term,” said Ben Goodman, a spokesperson for the governor.

The budget committee’s approval allows the adjustment to the two-year, $10.4 billion budget to proceed to floor votes. Maine is required to have a balanced budget by the state constitution.

Related articles
  • Inquiry slams UK authorities for failures that killed thousands in infected blood scandal

    Inquiry slams UK authorities for failures that killed thousands in infected blood scandal

    2024-05-21 09:42

  • New York City police shoot and kill a man they say would not drop a gun

    New York City police shoot and kill a man they say would not drop a gun

    2024-05-21 08:40

  • Mitchell has 33 points, but Cavaliers can't contain Tatum and Brown in Game 3 loss to Celtics

    Mitchell has 33 points, but Cavaliers can't contain Tatum and Brown in Game 3 loss to Celtics

    2024-05-21 07:36

  • Flash floods and cold lava flow hit Indonesia’s Sumatra island, killing at least 15 people

    Flash floods and cold lava flow hit Indonesia’s Sumatra island, killing at least 15 people

    2024-05-21 07:24

Netizen comments