RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - After months of back and forth negotiations, it appears Virginia lawmakers may have reached a budget compromise Thursday evening in the midst of a Special Session.
However, nothing is set in stone instead it’s sort of a handshake deal between the state’s Democrats and Republicans on how to divide a new $85 billion budget. The tentative plan will allow state funded operations to stay afloat for the next two years.
In fact some local schools, like Richmond Public Schools have been waiting on the state to get its finances in order so the district could develop a financial plan of its own.
The unofficial deal by legislators--for some is considered an important step for services and systems around the state to begin configuring its finances. As it stands, the compromised spending plan invests more money in public education and health and human services than originally proposed by Governor Bob McDonnell.
Some of the budget highlights include roughly $214 million going towards the public education budget to assist schools with retirement, inflation adjustments and pre-kindergarten programs. Also $125 million is projected for toll relief in Hampton Roads. However the financial plan does not include the proposed $300 million for the Metrorail line to Dulles International Airport.
The budget bill will be voted on April 17th.
