THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, February 25, 1995 TAG: 9502250234
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B3 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY DAVID M. POOLE AND ROBERT LITTLE, STAFF WRITERS
DATELINE: RICHMOND LENGTH: Short : 37 lines
The General Assembly on Friday approved state budget revisions that make formal its repudiation of Gov. George F. Allen's tax and spending cuts, but Allen reminded lawmakers that he will get another crack at some of his spending priorities.
In a letter to legislative leaders, Allen said he would wield his authority to amend the budget when the Assembly reconvenes April 5 for the annual veto session.
Allen - who on Thursday conceded that his $403 million package of spending cuts may have been ``too much'' - indicated he would not try to fight the battle again over his entire tax cut package.
``But,'' the chief executive wrote, ``my ability to gain direct floor votes at the reconvened session on selective budget-amendment proposals will ensure the accountability that the people of Virginia deserve.''
In other words, Allen will seek recorded votes on issues that he hopes to use against Democrats this fall when all 140 Assembly seats will be on the ballot. Democrats are trying to hold onto thin majorities in the House and Senate against a rising GOP tide.
Democratic lawmakers said they welcome the opportunity to defend their votes that prevent Allen from cutting funds for police officers, colleges and services to the elderly.
The budget agreement passed unanimously in the Senate and by an 82-17 margin in the House of Delegates.
KEYWORDS: BUDGET GENERAL ASSEMBLY VETO SESSION by CNB