Kansas Legislature to discuss new taxes to fill shortfall
Topeka ? Kansas lawmakers are preparing to discuss new packages of tax increases aimed at closing a looming budget shortfall.
The Kansas Senate was expected to continue discussions Tuesday on a package of tax hikes to fill a projected budget gap of $406 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1. Despite working through the weekend, legislators remain sharply divided on competing proposals.
Administration officials have warned lawmakers that state workers will be furloughed if a budget is not passed by June 7.
The state’s budget problems arose after lawmakers cut income taxes in 2012 and 2013 at Gov. Sam Brownback’s urging in an effort to stimulate the economy.
The deadlock over the budget fix has made this year’s session the second longest in the history of the Kansas Legislature.