COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- House and Senate members are trying to break a stalemate and agree to a budget compromise.

The budget conference committee is meeting Friday in an attempt to pass a budget before the fiscal year starts July 1. It is its first public meeting since Monday.

The chambers are at an impasse over a $40 million difference. The House insists on a $60 million tax break for small business owners. The Senate has offered to increase its break from $15 million to $20 million.

But Ways and Means Chairman Brian White says anything less than the full $60 million is a nonstarter.

House conferees have agreed to the Senate's version on pay raises for state employees. Most would receive a 3 percent raise, rather than 2 percent.

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