Five Takeaways From the State's Budget Session
Lawmakers closed a contentious session with new spending on infrastructure and a narrower-than-expected deficit.
The state legislature wrapped its annual budget session late Wednesday after a marathon final sitting, passing a spending plan that increases infrastructure outlays by 12% while trimming the projected deficit.
Here is what changed, what didn't, and what to watch before the next fiscal year begins.
Infrastructure gets the largest single increase
Road and transit funding rose more than any other line item, reflecting a push from urban-district lawmakers who had threatened to withhold votes without it.
Health spending held flat
Despite advocacy from public health groups, the health department's budget was held roughly flat year-over-year, adjusted for inflation.
Meera Kapoor
Politics Editor
Meera covers national politics and policy. Previously at the state legislature press desk for six years.