Budget debate begins this week in South Carolina House

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – South Carolina House members are getting ready to debate the state’s nearly $10 billion spending plan for next year. The budget debate begins Monday with some routine votes. More meaty debate is expected later in the week, and there will likely be even more budget debate this summer. Ways and Means Committee Chairman Murrell Smith said budget writers were conservative and could increase spending if tax revenues continue to be ahead of projections.