The Kansas House had been planning to debate a tax bill Thursday, but dissatisfied members of the chamber were able to stop the debate before it even started. The bill failed to get the two-thirds vote needed to be brought up for debate. It appears conservative Republicans and a small number of Democrats were able to block the discussion.
House Republican Majority Leader Jene Vickrey (VICK-ree) says the bill will be back on the agenda Friday.
“It’s not easy for us as a majority party to find the will to add to the burden of the taxpayers, that’s who we work for. We’re very cognizant of that. We will keep working,” says Vickrey.
Some conservatives were worried that they wouldn’t have much say in the debate if it took place Thursday. It appears they’ll be able to play a bigger role in crafting a plan during debate Friday.
Lawmakers believe they have around half of the $800 million shortfall filled, but they’re still working to eliminate the remaining $400 million deficit.