The income tax cuts backed by Kansas Governor Sam Brownback emerged mostly intact from the legislative session that wrapped up Friday. But fellow Republicans say they are wondering how they're going to defend increases in other taxes. The final budget bill represents the largest tax increase in state history and Kansas now has one of the nation's highest sales tax rates. Senate President Susan Wagle says the measure was a very difficult vote for her fellow Republicans.
Republican lawmakers repeatedly resisted tax hikes and Governor Sam Brownback said he would not accept the elimination of tax exemptions for businesses. Approval of the increases came only after top Brownback aides warned of across-the-board spending cuts. When the session finally ended, it was the longest annual session in state history, at 113 days.
