The bill now heads to Governor Pence’s desk.
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Pence’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Instead, after weeks of posturing and negotiation, the GOP-controlled Legislature approved a package of proposals Thursday that is more limited in scope and is expected to pump roughly $230 million in new money into state highways and bridges over the next two years.
The Republican recently celebrated millions that will be invested in road improvements, an increase in funding for an economic development effort he’s spearheaded and a measure to eliminate the state’s deeply unpopular ISTEP student exam.
Rep. Ed Soliday, a Valparaiso Republican who is chairman of the House Roads Committee, said Indiana’s infrastructure ranks in the bottom third of US states.
There’s no word yet whether Republican Gov. Mike Pence, a strong supporter of right to life, will sign it.
Bosma all but conceded a tax increase is dead this session, but said any agreement would include provisions that will force the conversation again next year. Pence and legislative leaders agreed to set the figure relatively low to ensure all sides return to the bargaining table during next year’s budget talks to forge a long-term solution. On the other, they don’t want to inconvenience innocent customers.
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“I have a pharmacist in Auburn that I’ve known forever, and it’s not my regular pharmacy”.
