Republican leaders respond to Gov. Markell’s recommended budget

Governor Markell announced his recommendation for the 2016 operating budget, but some republican leaders say they’re not convinced the recommendation is reasonable.

In a statement released to 47 ABC, Senate leader Gary Simpson says “The governor complained about not having enough money in the budget, yet we grew our budget from approximately $3.1 billion from when he came into office to $3.9 billion this year. That is a gigantic increase over a six-year period, and I really don’t think they’re doing enough in his administration to trim expenses.”

Greg Lavelle, another republican Senate leader, took a look at the bigger picture and claims the recommended budget does not reflect well on the state of the economy.

“It continues to reflect an overall economy that’s not growing enough.” Explains Lavelle. “We have offered, on several occasions, numerous ideas to strengthen Delaware’s economy, through modifications in the prevailing wage and right-to-work laws that have succeeded in other states in attracting quality, high-paying jobs.”

Governor Markell proposed a 3.9 billion dollar budget, which is an increase of 2.4% over last year.  At Thursday’s press conference, the governor admitted tough choices had to be made when assembling budget. He says the end goal is to efficient with tax-payer dollars.

To find 47 ABC’s report on Governor Markell’s recommended budget, please visit the story by clicking here.