The top Democratic leaders of the Connecticut General Assembly say they’re encouraged by Gov. M. Jodi Rell’s compromise budget proposal that raises income taxes on the wealthy.
House Speaker Christopher Donovan says he’s optimistic that a budget deal can be reached before the end of the month, adding how Rell’s approximate $37.1 billion, two-year budget plan is providing “common ground” for an agreement.
A special session planned for Thursday has been postponed. Democrats had considered running their own budget. Instead, Donovan says he hopes there will be negotiations with Rell, a Republican.
There’s a chance a budget vote could be held Friday or early next week.
Rell’s plan increases the personal income tax rate from 5 percent to 6.5 percent. (AP)
