Debate over which taxes to raise and by how much

State Democratic leaders have decided a $4 billion budget shortfall has to bridged with some kind tax increases. But they are divided about what kind of taxes to raise, and by how much. The latest idea from key Democrats is to raise $900 million with new sales taxes on dozens of new services and amusements, like bowling, golf, even NASCAR tickets. Republican leaders vow they will oppose all suggestions of tax increases, saying they would hurt the state economy. "Every year they want more taxes. The people ought to finally conclude that if they want to pay more taxes, they ought to vote for more Democrats," said Wake County Republican Paul Stam. A handful of key Democrats were scheduled to meet again late Monday afternoon to try to come closer to an agreement. The new budget year starts July 1st.