Texas House and Senate leaders appear to agree on their proposed budgets. Next, they just have to figure out how to cut $7.2 billion. Senate Finance Chair Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, worked with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to propose a state budget of $119.7 billion in general funds. House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, proposed the same budget figure, indicating a collaborative spirit at the start of the 87th session. That spirit will be tested as legislators try to meet Comptroller Glen Hegar’s budgeted revenue forecast of $112.5 billion. “We have many tools available to balance this budget, which will require us to re-establish ...