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Vermont Governor Looks To One-Time Funding To Avoid Tax Increase

Vermont Governor Phil Scott
Pat Bradley/WAMC

Governor Phil Scott, is proposing using one-time funding to close a $58 million gap in the state's Education Fund in 2019 and avoid raising property taxes.

WCAX-TV reportsthe Republican's proposal unveiled Tuesday involves using $19 million from a tobacco settlement, $20 million from an anticipated surplus and $7 million from the general fund reserve to close the hole in the education fund.

The proposal would prevent a seven-cent increase in the property tax rate.

Democratic lawmakers are criticizing the proposal, saying the money would be better spent elsewhere. Democratic Senate President Tim Ashe says Scott's plan is "a political gimmick."

Scott is expected to run for re-election this November.

The Legislature will review the administration's proposal for the next few days before making a decision.

© 2018 Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.