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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois House has passed a $6.7 billion budget for the state's schools.
The 61-54 vote came despite loud Republican objections as the spending depends on making a temporary tax increase permanent.
Arlington Heights Republican state Rep. David Harris says the move is "putting the cart before the horse."
The budget would increase general state aid by $132 million and early childhood education by $25 million. Bilingual education next year would increase by $12 million.
The bill is part of an overall spending plan that mirrors much of Gov. Pat Quinn's recommended budget totaling $38 billion.
The House is expected to debate more than 50 other spending bills Thursday.
Democrats hope passing a budget calling for more spending will solidify support for the tax vote.
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The bill is HB6021.
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