Panel OKs $153 million supplemental Maine budget

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) -- Legislative votes are expected next week on a $153 million supplemental Maine budget, whose prospects for passage appear good, thanks to unanimous committee support.

The Appropriations Committee on Wednesday endorsed the budget, which bridges over $88 million unanticipated Medicaid costs and $35 million in revenue shortfalls due to the lagging economy. The spending package balances the budget for year ending June 30.

The committee did not include Gov. Paul LePage's proposed elimination of the Drugs for the Elderly Program or elimination of cost of living adjustments for retired state employees.

Democratic and Republican leaders say they're pleased with the committee's action although neither got everything they wanted.

The two parties were unable to agree on whether to restore LePage's $12.5 million cut to General Purpose Aid to education.