Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) proposed a state budget Wednesday that would cut income taxes but increase the sales tax, an approach his administration said would make state finances more resilient by shifting the revenue stream from what people earn to what they spend.
The two-year plan features funding increases for mental health, child care, and pay for teachers and state employees — though the pay increases are smaller than in recent years. With Democrats set to take control of both chambers of the General Assembly when the legislative session begins Jan. 10, Youngkin will have to work across the aisle to get his priorities enacted.
“Today I am proud to present our unleashing-opportunity budget as part of a bold, necessary path forward,” Youngkin said as he presented the spending plan to the legislature’s money committees Wednesday morning, calling for lawmakers to work together for the public good.
