NASHVILLE, TN – A budget proposal that cuts spending and does not include tax hikes on hard-working Tennessee families cleared the State Senate Finance Committee late last night.

“Republicans are proving that we are the party of fiscal responsibility and lower taxes,” said Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney. “Our GOP members are demonstrating their leadership by making difficult decisions and protecting Tennesseans from dangerous tax hikes that would hurt families, small businesses, and our state’s economy. Our Republican Senators should be commended for their work during this difficult budget debate.”

“It is frustrating to learn that House Democrats apparently broke down negotiations because they refuse to back down on bigger spending and more government,” continued Devaney. “From day one, Republicans have advocated for a budget that reins in spending and protects Tennessee taxpayers. Clearly House Democrats are not on the same page.”