CHARLESTON – Senate President Bill Cole, R-Mercer, issued the following statement today after the Senate voted 28-3 to pass Senate Bill 1013, the Budget Bill: “With this vote today, we were able to end the uncertainty for hundreds of thousands of West Virginians who rely on us to provide them with the stability that comes from a balanced, responsible budget. While it’s fair to say that nobody walked away from these negotiations truly happy, Republicans and Democrats in both the House and Senate were able to come together to do what is best for West Virginians. Governor Tomblin’s suggested 65-cent tax on tobacco products will help provide the necessary revenue to keep our government operating, and ensure we are able to keep our promises to our state employees and retirees. I am confident we have approved a budget the Governor can sign.” |
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