RI lawmakers may restore some funding

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - House lawmakers will gather at the Rhode Island State House Wednesday afternoon to vote on a $7.2 billion dollar state budget plan.

It's a budget plan that, according to House Majority Leader Gordon Fox, will restore $25 million of the $55 million in state funding for cities and town that the House Finance Committee recommended eliminating.

Fox said the changes were made after lawmakers protested cuts that they said are forcing local governments to lay off police and firefighters, delay street sweeping and limit other services.

Local mayors remain concerned and are preparing for the worst case scenario.

"I don't think we're going to hear good news budget wise at least for several more years," said Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian. "But what we try to do is look at  what is the most reasonable approach we could close the gap if nothing came through."

Fox said the revised plan also eliminates a proposal that would raise the state's gasoline tax by two cents.

Republican Governor Donald Carcieri opposes the plan. However, Democrats hold a veto proof majority in the House.

"I don't think this is the time to add any burden to our citizens," Carcieri said.

The city of Cranston is set to lose more than $5 million in municipal aid under the original deal. It's leaving the mayor of the budget strapped city concerned.

"Who knows what could happen. I had to budget for the worst case scenario," said Mayor Alan Fung.

The vote is set for 2 p.m. at the State House. The session is expected to be a crowded and lengthy.