Kentucky Senate passes its version of new state budget

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — The Kentucky Senate has passed its version of a new state budget. The plan approved Thursday reflects an expected downturn in tax collections as the new coronavirus inflicts damage on the economy. The Senate action was another phase in the budget-writing process. The next step will occur when House and Senate conferees resolve differences in their budget plans. Reflecting the new economic uncertainties, the Senate version includes “bumpers” that would stop certain spending increases if state revenues fall short of projections.