Nation IN BRIEF : MASSACHUSETTS : Legislature Passes Biggest Tax Hike

The Massachusetts Legislature enacted the largest tax hike in state history, a $1.3-billion combination of income, sales and gasoline levies designed to revive the flagging “miracle” touted by Gov. Michael S. Dukakis in 1988. The measure was enacted on an 80-75 vote in the House before winning final approval in the Senate by a 20-16 margin. It heads to the desk of Dukakis, an ardent supporter who aides said may sign the measure during the weekend. The final votes, which came shortly before 4 a.m. in Boston, ended a marathon session. Angry Republicans and tax hike opponents said supporters of the measure would face retribution at the polls. The measure could also be undone by a ballot initiative designed to roll back the more than $2 billion in higher taxes and fees approved since 1988, when Dukakis campaigned for the White House on his ability to balance 10 state budgets.