Frankfort, Kentucky – The Kentucky House has passed a budget bill that protects funding for public schools. But, the measure calls for 2.6% cuts for other state agencies. The 2.6% cuts would apply to both 2003 and 2004. The measure approved by the House would protect funding for elementary and secondary education, justice programs, jails, prisons, and human service programs.
House Appropriations and Revenue Committee Chair Harry Moberly says the bill makes no cuts -- from 2002 levels -- to the Cabinet for Families and Children or medicaid. The lawmaker from Richmond says the bill will provide raises of $1,080 dollars next year for teachers and state employees in the Executive Branch.
Most other state agencies, including state universities and community colleges, will receive a 2.6% cut in 2003 and 2004. The bill contains no tax increases and no new road projects. House Bill 269 passed by a 95 to 4 margin.