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increase passed, it seems reasonable to budget with money you have,” he said. “You know what the pot of money is; our job is just to spend it.”
People on both sides of the tax debate expect to find popular support. Kaine plans more town hall meetings on transportation, and has said he’ll use campaign tactics to connect with citizens.
“You’ll likely see me out on the road,” he said.
Delegate Clifford L. “Clay” Athey Jr., R-Warren, said folks back home won’t stomach new taxes with a $1.4 billion budget surplus.
“I don’t think the people are going to stand for another huge tax increase,” he said. “I think my constituents are tired of the government arbitrarily raising taxes, especially raising taxes when we’re running huge surpluses.”
Delegate Ben Cline, RRockbridge, said he is looking forward to talking with his constituents about tax-free transportation solutions. He thinks the differences can be worked out for a final budget.
The new state budget will cover expenses after July 1. If the budget isn’t reached by that date there will be problems, Kaine said. He said a reenlistment bonus for National Guard troops scheduled for April 1 has been lost in the stalemate.
“A whole series of dates cascade after 60 days,” Kaine said.
Howell said the ball was in the senators’ court because their plan relied on new taxes that weren’t approved yet.
“The closer you get to that date [July 1], the more pressure is on the Senate,” Howell said. “If we shut down, it’s not the House’s fault.”
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