The House Appropriations Committee voted against releasing a Senate passed version of the budget, indicating that a “cuts only” approach to solving the 2009-2010 state budget dilemma is not acceptable. During nearly three hours of debate, House members commented repeatedly on their concern that SB 850 will simply pass costs to local government, burden the counties, and force property tax increases. The vote, along party lines was 20 votes against the plan versus 14 in favor.

While the budget battle is far from over, and we have yet to determine the next step in the process, it sets the standard for discussions on provisions to increase revenue that the House Democrats clearly believe are a needed component in the ongoing debate.