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GOP pushes budget plan, contentious issues in Legislature

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Republican lawmakers who have firm control on the Statehouse are pushing ahead with a series of contentious issues as they head into the second half of the legislative session.

Lawmakers appear determined to allow the replacement of Democratic schools Superintendent Glenda Ritz as the state Board of Education’s leader. They’re also pushing changes to the school funding formula that would shift millions away from urban and rural schools.

They’re also considering proposals to allow businesses to refuse to provide services for same-sex weddings based on their faith.

Republican Gov. Mike Pence says the session is off to a successful start but has hinted that the House-passed state budget plan might spend too much. Lawmakers must pass a two-year budget before they adjourn in April.