Even some popular bills likely to fail in tough budget year

“It will be a painful year, no doubt about that”

Even in good years, lawmakers don't like to hear their proposals have been placed 'behind the budget.'

In a tight year like this one, that fate might as well be a death knell.

When the House Budget Subcommittee _ known in the past as the 'black hole' for its ability to kill off legislation _ places a bill behind the budget, it means the panel plans to revisit the measure if any money is left after the state's spending plan is set.

This year, officials are planning cuts in ongoing programs because of worse-than-expected tax collections _ meaning there won't be too many proposals re-emerging from behind the budget. Read more