TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Several hundred advocates and disabled Kansas residents have rallied at the Statehouse for preserving spending on social services as legislators deal with the state’s budget problems.

The rally Thursday came with the Republican-controlled Legislature in early discussions about proposals to raise taxes to close a shortfall in the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1. Legislative researchers say the deficit is $422 million.

The event was sponsored by InterHab. It represents providers of services to the developmentally disabled.

Executive Director Tom Laing said the group has specific concerns such as funding for in-home services.

But Laing said the larger concern is that lawmakers won’t raise enough new revenues to prevent social services cuts.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Ron Ryckman Jr. said legislators are committed to preserving programs.