The New York State Legislature tentatively agreed on a budget Wednesday that includes billions for Bronx and city schools.

If the budget is approved by Governor Pataki (R-NY), city schools would receive $11.2 billion for school construction. The budget also includes $450 million for school operating aid. James Monroe High School and the New Bronx Leadership Academy are two of the schools where construction projects would begin if the budget is passed.

The proposed budget would also return hundreds of dollars in tax credits and rebate checks to most New Yorkers. Legislative leaders hope to have budget bills ready for a vote by April 1.

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