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Lawmakers agree on tentative spending deal prompted by coronavirus

Lawmakers agree on tentative spending deal prompted by coronavirus

Augusta (WGAN) -- Legislative leaders reached a tentative deal with Governor Janet Mills Monday on a spending package prompted by the coronavirus outbreak.  Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


Augusta (WGAN) — Legislative leaders reached a tentative deal with Governor Janet Mills Monday on a spending package prompted by the coronavirus outbreak.

This package will likely be smaller than the $127 million supplemental budget package that was presented back in February. Focusing on increased healthcare reimbursement in response to the coronavirus outbreak, as well as public education funding, and bringing the state’s share of essential K-12 costs from 51% to 52%.

Included in the package, $120 million bond proposal with $105 million slated for the state’s transportation system, and that leaves $15 million for broadband infrastructure.

The spending package is expected to go to the Legislative budget committee later today, and will go to lawmakers Tuesday for approval. If approved, this will be the legislative’s last vote before adjourning until further notice. All other legislative activity has been canceled amid the coronavirus outbreak.

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