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MEXICO CITY (AP) Mexico's leaders have approved a $244 billion budget for 2010, a slight increase from 2009 despite an economic crisis.

The budget approved early Tuesday includes an income tax increase from from 28 percent to 30 percent, making up in part for lost revenues from the worst recession in 80 years. The Treasury estimates a drop of 6.8 percent for the year, while the central bank predicts that could be up to 7 percent.

The budget uses funds saved through cost reductions in federal departments to strengthen spending on education, Agriculture, health care and poverty (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-17-09 1133CST | save this article / add to your favorites list