Senate conservatives dismayed at Senate budget plan

HELENA (AP) — Montana lawmakers brokering budget deals Saturday restored federal family planning money sought by Democrats, and gave Republicans a permanent cut of 500 vacant state jobs.

The Republican-controlled chamber endorsed the state's main $9 billion budget bill - a combination of state and federal money - in a 30-20 vote after an all-day session. It covers services big and small: schools, driver's licensing, Medicaid, law enforcement and much more.

Fiscal conservatives voiced displeasure, including the majority leader, saying the budget spends too much. Other Republicans joined Democra...