Democrats approve budget with no cuts to education

The House Thursday passed a state budget that closes a $1 billion-plus revenue gap while protecting funding for K-12 schools and higher education and maintaining the safety net.

Rep. Ross Hunter of Medina, chair of the budget-writing Ways and Means Committee, assured House members the $31 billion spending plan is responsible, sustainable and will put the state on solid ground heading into the next two-year budget cycle. During floor debate, Majority Leader Pat Sullivan of Covington said that he would be proud to bring this budget home to his constituents – especially those students preparing to enter the workforce.

The 54-43 vote for the budget (ESHB 2127) sends it to the Senate.

A key to the House-passed plan is better management of the state’s collection and distribution of local sales taxes. The modernization, endorsed by the state treasurer, will provide a $238 million boost to the bottom line.

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