Topeka ? The House Appropriations Committee endorsed a proposed budget in line with Republican leaders’ goal of boosting education funding without increasing taxes.

• House budget writers decided to delay the 2.5 percent pay raise Gov. Kathleen Sebelius proposed for state employees for nine months, until March 2006.

Also:

Reggie Robinson, chief executive officer for the state Board of Regents, called the budget emerging from committee a “$40 million blow” to state universities because of extra money the governor sought but House members didn’t include.

Clock is ticking:

Friday was the 61st calendar day of the session, out of 90 scheduled.