Budget: Boswell Expects “Scorched Earth” Package Out of Senate

Many of Governor Steve Beshear’s proposed tax increases are not likely to be passed by the Republican-controlled Senate, according to State Senator David Boswell (D-Owensboro). “It’s not looking like any possible revenue increases related to taxes will be passed,” said Boswell. “Maybe – absolutely maybe – we will see a small increase in the cigarette tax.” Boswell, who sits on the Senate’s Appropriations and Revenue Committee, said he has yet to see the Republican budget plan and does not expect to until Monday. Information on the plan has only passed to him unofficially. “I am speculating, but I think this will be a scorched earth budget that will force us into conference committee,” said Boswell. The long-time Senator – and candidate for the 2nd Congressional District - noted budget markups in conference are typical in Kentucky, but the sorts of budget constraints at play this year are not. “There is just more demand on what dollars you have,” said Boswell, “And now there are some real financial issues.”