Mass. Senate To Launch State Budget Debate

The Massachusetts Senate is set to begin debate on a state budget proposal that includes no new taxes and leaves untouched the state's rainy day savings fund.

Senate Ways and Means Chairman Steven Panagiotakos said the $27.8 billion proposal relies on deep cuts including a $159 million reduction in aid to cities and towns. The Massachusetts House has already endorsed the cut.

Gov. Deval Patrick's budget would maintain local aid, but dip into the state's savings fund.

Panagiotakos said every community will still receive enough education aid to meet the requirements of the state's 1993 Education Reform law.

Senate Republicans are pushing a series of cost-cutting measures including a proposal they said would make it harder for illegal immigrants to receive public benefits.