Governor Dannel Malloy is receiving a steady stream of complaints from social service advocates and others about the cuts in his second two-year budget, which were needed to help cover an approximately $1 billion projected deficit in each fiscal year. 

About $470,000 dollars in cuts proposed by Malloy in the next budget are opposed by a local lawmaker.  The cuts are for Connecticut Honor Guard detachments at veteran's funerals to eliminate two members of the guard, bringing their numbers down to three.  Southbury state Representative Arthur O'Neill says given the pomp and ceremony of Malloy's inauguration, this is ironic.  He received a military salute.

The unit would be cut from five to three members.  They perform a rifle salute, play taps and fold the flag among other duties.  Lawmakers are currently considering a bill that would fully exempt military retirement pay from the state income tax.

O'Neill also cited wage increases for people in Malloy's office, Commissioners and others totalling $1.2 million.

Lawmakers still have about a month before they must vote on tax and spending plans that are typically the basis for closed-door negotiations with the administration.