House Stands By Retroactive Cap Gains Hike, Rejects Larger Business Tax Hike
       The House on Wednesday voted 107 to 45 to reject a Republican-sponsored amendment that would set the implementation date of a 2002 capital gains tax hike at Jan. 1, 2003.  Republicans argued it was the only equitable way to respond to a court ruling that ruled a mid-year effective date constitutional.  They said the amendment's $150 million price tag was affordable, given that tax collections of late are far exceeding projections. 
       Opponents said state government needs the money to pay for state services, and to restore programs hit but budget cuts. 
       Earlier Wednesday, the House voted 109 to 45 to reject an stood by a committee-sponsored bill that raises taxes on businesses by $85 million and exempts individuals from a retroactive capital gains tax increase if their tax liability is $100 or less.   Both branches are counting on the revenues from the so-called loophole-closing bill to balance the budget bills that remain before a six-member conference committee. 
       The Senate may consider the tax bill Thursday, when it will hold a formal session and entertain legislation broadening access emergency contraception pills. The House will meet in an informal session Thursday, an indication that a budget compromise almost certainly will not be released and voted on this week.