Massachusetts Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo wants the state's highest court to settle a dispute he's having with the Senate President — the latest chapter in a legislative power struggle.
During its budget debate this week, the Senate canceled future income tax cuts in order to fund a boost to the earned income tax credit, an antipoverty program.
DeLeo — who has vowed not to raise taxes — says the Senate had no right to do that, because the state constitution says so-called “money bills” must originate in the House.
But Senate President Stan Rosenberg says the House opened the door to tax increases when it quietly approved more money for a tax credit for conservation land.
DeLeo has asked the Supreme Judicial Court to look at the constitution and issue an advisory opinion.
This comes as the two leaders continue to disagree about rules for legislative committees — with Rosenberg looking to expand the Senate's influence and DeLeo trying to keep the status quo.
