Gov. Philip B. Scott unveils $8.6 billion budget focused on housing, public safety and no new taxes

Gov. Philip B. Scott told a joint assembly on Jan. 23 that his proposed $8.6 billion budget centers on affordability, public safety and housing while avoiding new taxes and fees. "This work, especially when it comes to affordability, starts with the budget I'm presenting, which totals $8,600,000,000 across all funds," Scott said as he outlined specific funding priorities and policy proposals.

Scott said the plan holds general fund growth to 3.57% to match available revenue "without new or higher taxes and fees," and argued much of the state's added revenue must be used to sustain existing services after a period of elevated spending. He listed the major allotments: $353 million for transportation, $2.4 billion for education and $2.3 billion for the general fund.

On health care, Scott proposed a $4.2 million state increase to stabilize rates for nursing homes and rehabilitation centers and said that would secure an additional $4.7 million in federal…