Md. House Approves $37 Billion State Budget
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland House of Delegates has approved the state's budget, which is about $37 billion.
The Democratic-controlled House voted 101-36 on Friday for the bill, largely along party lines. The measure now goes to the Senate.
Republicans criticized the plan, saying lawmakers have allowed spending to grow too much due to tax increases in recent years and shifts of money from dedicated funds. But Democrats say the state has been able to maintain crucial education funding to invest in the state's future, even in the aftermath of the recession.
Unlike last year, the budget plan does not contain tax increases. However, a separate measure would raise taxes on gasoline to help fund transportation needs.
The budget has about $1.1 billion in total cash and reserves to prepare for federal cuts.
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