Haley says state Senate must cut more taxes
Posted: 05.16.2012 at 10:15 AM
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(AP) -- Gov. Nikki Haley is demanding that South Carolina state senators cut more taxes.

The Republican governor said Tuesday the Senate needs to include in its 2012-13 spending plan a reduction in personal income taxes.

Haley criticized the Senate as the chamber opened debate on the Finance Committee's budget proposal. Debate will continue Wednesday.

The plan incorporates a bill reducing taxes paid by small business owners. But Haley insists the Senate also include a second tax-cutting bill the House passed last month. It doesn't take effect until 2013, but Haley says the $78 million should be set aside now.

Senate Finance Chairman Hugh Leatherman says the state has tremendous needs after years of cuts. He notes the budget already includes $752 million in tax relief and puts $395 million into reserves.

(Copyright ©2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)