Wielding Line-Item Veto, Manchin Signs Budget Bill

Gov. Joe Manchin trimmed about $8 million from the general revenue and lottery sections of the recently passed budget bill before approving the spending measure for the 2008-2009 fiscal year.

As The Associated Press reports, "casualties include nearly $1 million for 4-H camp improvements, $50,000 for a new authority to oversee State Route 2, and $250,000 for the Senior Corps volunteer program."

Manchin also reduced or zeroed out funding for 51 of the 414 fairs and festivals earmarked by lawmakers in the legislation. Deleted events include "Fourth of July events in Chester, Hurricane and Hampshire County, the Nicholas County Fair, four events in Greenbrier County and the Taste of Parkersburg," AP reports.

As both AP and The Charleston Gazette report, Manchin vetoed $24.5 million out of a separate bill meant for the pending transfer proposal involving the Teachers' Retirement System.

"Manchin, in his veto message, said the actual expense won't be known until the Teachers Defined Contribution to TRS transfer election is completed this spring," The Gazette article said.

The budget line-item vetoes also reflect Manchin's earlier veto of a pay raise for conservation officers. AP has those details.

MetroNews also reports on the line item vetoes.