CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - Republican legislative leaders are asking Democratic Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin for more options during the ongoing budget session.
In a letter Tuesday, Senate President Bill Cole and House Speaker Tim Armstead named other options to close a $270 million gap.
Among them are $10 million from an infrastructure fund; eliminating the secretary of the arts and education, worth $852,000; and $16 million in greyhound subsidies.
They want to revive bills introduced by Tomblin this year that would change the school aid formula, worth $15 million, and take $9 million in casino funding. Lawmakers previously killed the bills.
Tomblin has proposed tax increases on tobacco and e-cigarettes, cellphone and landline use, and sales.
Tomblin’s response letter says he’s willing to discuss new items if lawmakers outline their alternative budget plan.
Tomblin called them into session Monday.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.