Budget negotiators across the General Assembly and Administration appear to have reached several mutual concessions that may bring the state’s fiscal plan into focus for FY 2016 by the end of the regular session Monday.
The Baltimore Sun reports:
House and Senate fiscal leaders agreed Friday on a $40.5 billion budget plan with what they hope are enough sweeteners to break an impasse with Gov. Larry Hogan and shake loose money for education and health, and to avoid a state employee pay cut.
The plan will move to the House Saturday and later to the Senate, though the chambers could delay action until Monday to bargain with Hogan.
“I see the light at the end of the tunnel,” said Del. Maggie L. McIntosh, the chief House negotiator.
The plan reportedly includes some alternative support for private school materials and programs, in lieu of a broader funding proposal backed by the Governor. Other legislative priorities of the Governor, and safeguards for formula-funded programs, are likely connected to the overall package as well.