South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley talks to FOX Carolina's Diana Watson during an interview. (File/FOX Carolina)COLUMBIA, SC (AP) -
Gov. Nikki Haley is demanding that South Carolina state senators cut more taxes.
The Republican governor said Tuesday the Senate needs to include in its 2012-13 spending plan a reduction in personal income taxes.
Haley criticized the Senate as the chamber opened debate on the Finance Committee's budget proposal. Debate will continue Wednesday.
The plan incorporates a bill reducing taxes paid by small business owners. But Haley insists the Senate also include a second tax-cutting bill the House passed last month. It doesn't take effect until 2013, but Haley says the $78 million should be set aside now.
Senate Finance Chairman Hugh Leatherman said the state has tremendous needs after years of cuts. He notes the budget already includes $752 million in tax relief and puts $395 million into reserves.
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