SC lawmakers approve budget, keep government going

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The Legislature has passed a new budget as well as a resolution that keeps South Carolina government running until the spending plan takes effect.

The new budget year starts Sunday.

The House and Senate approved a $6.7 billion budget compromise Thursday.

It’s unlikely to take effect by midnight Saturday. The law gives Gov. Nikki Haley five days to issue her line-item vetoes. She’s said the Legislature’s inability to get its work done on time should not shorten her allowed time.

The continuing resolution will fund government at current levels until she acts. The Senate approved it Thursday morning and the House approved it unanimously an hour later. It contains a small business tax cut.

If Haley signs the budget soon, state workers will get their checks on time Monday.