Tuesday, May 8, 2012

The Kansas House is preparing to debate a proposed $14 billion state budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Tuesday's debate will focus on spending priorities proposed by the House Appropriations Committee, including more money for social services to meet increased demand.

The Senate has already passed its own version of the budget. The Senate plan would spend some $14.4 billion and increase spending
for public schools.

Legislators are quickly approaching the 90-day limit of the session. Once the House approves a budget, negotiators from the two chambers will begin meeting to work out their differences.

The final agreement must pass the House and Senate on Friday at the latest for the session to end on time.