Ohio lawmakers expected to vote on interim budget today

COLUMBUS (AP) — State lawmakers are expected to vote on a temporary budget as they remain at an impasse over a proposal that would legalize slot machines at seven horse racetracks.

Senate Finance Chairman John Carey will offer the bill during a floor session today, marking the first time since 1991 that such a move was needed.

The interim budget would run through July 7, giving legislators another week to balance the two-year spending plan that was to start Wednesday.

The Republican-led Senate and Democrat-led House are at an impasse over how to fill a $3.2 billion hole in the $54 billion budget.

Gov. Ted Strickland suggested priorities after both chambers had approved proposals and were to begin negotiations. Among them was the slots proposal, which would raise $933 million.