A $25 billion state budget crafted by an evenly split committee did little to ease political tensions Thursday in the Senate, where the bill received final approval on a 21-14 vote.
Three Democrats broke party lines to join the majority Republicans in approving $9.6 billion in discretionary spending that includes 2 percent pay hikes for most state employees, $187 million in potential taxpayer refunds and $397 million for state construction projects.
Republican leaders allowed only three amendments, rejecting dozens of Democratic attempts and even a few GOP measures that split the caucus.
Senate Minority Leader Morgan Carroll accused Republicans of shutting out Democrats, saying it was a “good day for party discipline.”
The objection drew an incensed retort from Senate President Bill Cadman, who accused Democrats of “despicable” rhetoric in the debate.
He said the spending plan largely pays for the programs Democrats put in place.
“So if you don’t like what happened … you ought to look back in the past and see what you did that you didn’t like,” the Colorado Springs Republican said, glaring at Democratic members. “And I’m not even going to ask for an apology.”
The budget bill now moves to the House for votes next week.
John Frank: 303-954-2409, jfrank@denverpost.com or
