House approves 2010 spending plan

The budget was pared down after Gov. Sonny Perdue revised his revenue estimates.

Appropriations Committee Chairman Ben Harbin (R-Evans) told colleagues that the budget, which covers state spending through June 30, is down $1.5 billion from what lawmakers passed last year, due to the economic downturn and lower revenues.

Unpaid furlough days of teachers and other state employees were among the steps taken to reduce spending.