Tax commissioner: Threat of shutdown exaggerated by Democrats, media

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) The Scott administration says the threat of a state government shutdown has been exaggerated by Democrats and amplified by the media.

Republican Gov. Phil Scott has vetoed two state budget plans this year already and may veto a third. Scott and the Democratic-led Legislature disagree on property tax rates. If a budget isn't in place by July 1 state government will have to shut down.

Tax Commissioner Kaj Samsom, a key negotiator for the governor, sent a letter to Tax Department employees saying they shouldn't worry about a government shutdown happening. He says both sides want to avoid that.

"Nobody in the Statehouse or in the administration wants a shutdown. Truly. Everyone agrees it is not necessary and is a terrible thing. While the word 'shutdown' is thrown around a lot, nobody uttering that phrase really will let it happen, and they all recognize that fact," Samsom wrote.

Read more: http://www.wcax.com/content/news/Vt-Senate-poised-to-vote-on-3rd-budget-attempt-486153001.html