Update: Democratic spending cuts in Olympia target schools and colleges

  • The Associated Press
  • Monday, April 12, 2010 1:53pm
  • News

The Associated Press

OLYMPIA — Public schools and colleges are some the main targets for spending cuts in an updated budget that Democratic lawmakers are poised to approve.

Details of the Legislature’s budget agreement were released today — just one day before a 30-day special session expires.

The budget would reduce state general fund spending by about $755 million through June 2011. Big cuts include money to K-12 schools and public universities, along with savings in prisons and some welfare reforms.

A revenue package of close to $800 million is a key part of passing the budget. It would raise taxes in several areas, including service businesses, beer, candy, pop, bottled water, and more.

House and Senate lawmakers are preparing for final votes on the budget and tax plans.

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