Governor Blasts House Republicans Over Rainy Day Denial

Governor Holden says House Republicans have put next year’s budget in chaos by denying him the right to use Rainy Day money to cover a $200-Million shortfall in the current budget. The Governor held a hastily called news conference not long after the House denied him access to emergency reserves. Holden says House Republicans have created a fiscal emergency. Holden says he held negotiating sessions with House Republican Leader Catherine Hanaway and other House Republican leaders and had thought a deal would be reached. The Governor had counted on Republicans in the House to follow the lead of the Republican-controlled Senate. Holden called on House Republicans to reconsider their vote and give him authority to use Rainy Day dollars. Otherwise, he said state programsand services will be cut.