Chamber votes beginning for final NC state budget

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — North Carolina lawmakers are finally about to vote on a two-year spending and tax package that was supposed to be ready July 1.

Senate Republicans on Tuesday scheduled the first of two required chamber votes on their compromise state budget with House Republicans. The House could begin voting Wednesday. The bill would then go to Gov. Pat McCrory.

The plan spends nearly $22 billion and includes money for teaching assistants and driver’s education in schools. There are $750 bonuses for state employees and teachers. Teachers also get experienced-based raises.

The personal income tax rate would fall in 2017, but sales taxes also would soon apply to things like car repairs and appliance installations.

Senate Democrats complain the budget is being voted on too quickly after details were finalized in secret.

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