The Kentucky General Assembly has adopted a one year state budget. The Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to pass an $11.3 billion budget. A number of Senators said the great unknown about future tax dollars coming into state coffers made structuring a typical two year budget unfeasible.
In detailing the spending plan, Senate Budget Committee Chair Chris McDaniel noted the unique times found today. “The uncertainty swirling our society both in the public health and economic sectors is simply unparalleled to what anyone in this chamber and by and large in society has ever dealt with,” said McDaniel.
While Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer called the document - quote, “as close to a bipartisan budget as any I’ve ever seen,” there were still some concerns expressed. Senate Minority Floor Leader Morgan McGarvey said expanded gambling dollars and more tax reforms would have helped buffer some of the financial hardship. Grayson Senator Robin Webb said she and her colleagues were jeopardizing their and others health by meeting in session now. “We have asked our people to make sacrifices and be indoor and stand back and do all the things that we have been unable to do and we’ve been unable to lead by example,” said Webb.
The budget includes no raises for state employees or teachers and no additional money for education. Also Wednesday afternoon, with many members off the floor due to coronavirus concerns, the House voted 80-10 to pass the state budget. It now goes on to the governor for his review.
People like you value experienced, knowledgeable and award-winning journalism that covers meaningful stories in Central and Eastern Kentucky. To support this locally-produced content, please consider making a contribution.