3/4/04-The Senate Finance Committee voted 15-0 March 2 to reject the House budget proposal.
The House measure called for trimming Gov. Mark Warner’s $59 billion proposal by about $600 million, reflecting the chamber’s opposition to new taxes sought by the governor and Senate.
HB1488 would give an additional $28.9 million annually to airports, ports, highways, rail and public transportation projects. The Virginia Department of Transportation would receive the bulk of the new funds, getting about $23 million each year.
The House version rejected Warner’s plan to set aside $272 million in vehicle insurance premium tax revenue for transportation. It instead proposed using $45 million from the elimination of sales tax exemptions to increase road-building funds.

2/25/04-The House Finance Committee unveiled its budget proposal Feb. 22 trimming Gov. Mark Warner’s $59 billion proposal by about $600 million, reflecting the chamber’s opposition to new taxes sought by the Democratic governor and Senate.
The House measure – HB1488 – would give an additional $28.9 million annually to airports, ports, highways, rail and public transportation projects. The Virginia Department of Transportation would receive the bulk of the new funds, getting about $23 million each year.
The panel rejected Warner’s plan to set aside $272 million in vehicle insurance premium tax revenue for transportation. It instead proposed using $45 million from the elimination of sales tax exemptions to increase road-building funds.
The House version has been forwarded to the Senate for consideration. For bill status, call (804) 698-1500. In Virginia, call 1-888-892-6948.