ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Maryland Republicans are denouncing tax increases in a budget deal proposed during a special session in Annapolis.

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Lawmakers convened Monday for a special session that's expected to last about three days.

Democratic Gov. Martin O'Malley and the Democratic House and Senate leaders have hashed out a budget deal that includes income tax increases for individuals making $100,000 or more and households making $150,000 or more.

O'Malley says the tax increases are needed to avoid cuts to education and other critical services. But Republicans say the state has a spending problem, not a revenue problem.

Sen. David Brinkley, R-Frederick, says the tax increases will attack job creators in the state. Delegate Kathy Afzali, R-Frederick, says people are leaving the state due to high taxes.