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Mass. lawmakers weigh key financial matters

BOSTON (AP) - State lawmakers face several key financial decisions this week.

The Legislature is expected to take up an amendment proposed by Gov. Deval Patrick to a transportation finance bill that would allow the state's gasoline tax to rise if tolls on the western portion of the Massachusetts Turnpike are taken down as scheduled in 2017.

Legislative leaders have said they oppose the amendment, while Patrick says he will veto the transportation bill unless the change is made.

On Friday, Patrick vetoed $417 million in transportation and local aid funds, citing the lack of agreement over the transportation bill, which includes higher taxes on gasoline and cigarettes that are needed to balance the $34 billion state budget.

The Legislature could also decide this week whether to override those vetoes.