Lawmakers Avoid Controversy During AG Budget Hearing

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) --- The state Supreme Court will hear arguments today in the attempt by Attorney General Kathleen Kane to nullify a grand jury presentment that recommends charges against her. On Tuesday, Kane's troubles were largely ignored as she appeared before state lawmakers to discuss her proposed budget for the coming fiscal year.

Kathleen Kane's appearance at House budget hearings came not only on the eve of the Supreme Court arguments in her case, but on the same day that more charges were filed by Philadelphia DA Seth Williams in a sting operation involving Philadelphia lawmakers.

Kane deflected reporters after Tuesday's hearing.

Romeo: "Any comment on today's additional charges brought in this sting that you shut down?"
Kane: "No comment, thank you."
Romeo: How about your hearing tomorrow in the Supreme Court?
Kane: "I'm hopefully optimistic, thank you."

During the hearing, lawmakers like Montgomery County Republican Mike Vereb were deferential.

"And just to be very clear, you certainly have hit a couple of bumps in the road, you put aside Philly, you put aside, you know, this thing with the Supreme Court. I think you're doing a great job," he said.

Kane did say no public funds are being used to deal with legal issues involving her.