NC Senate gives final OK to state budget

RALEIGH -- The North Carolina Senate has sent the final budget bill for state government one step closer to Gov. Mike Easley's desk. The Senate gave final approval Tuesday by a vote of 32-14 to the $21.4 billion spending plan for the new fiscal year. The House is expected to cast its final vote Tuesday afternoon. Both chambers gave tentative approval to the plan Monday night. Easley can sign the bill into law, veto it or allow it to become law without his signature. The budget raises overall spending by $700 million compared to a year ago. Democratic leaders argue it's a small increase compared to the overall budget. Some Republicans complain that $857 million in borrowing authorized in the plan will lead to future tax increases. (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)