FRANKFORT, Ky. — House Democratic leaders hope to make an offer to Senate leaders next week on a compromise campaign finance proposal to try to break a deadlock over the state budget, House Democratic leader Greg Stumbo said.

        Mr. Stumbo has been the House leader most eager to negotiate with Republicans on the single issue that has prevented a budget deal. The parties are at odds over whether the budget should include money for public financing of next year's campaigns for governor. Mr. Stumbo said he suggested a compromise plan to other House leaders Tuesday.

        Mr. Stumbo, of Prestonsburg, would not reveal specifics of the plan Friday.

        “Other members of leadership, I think, are in tune with the spirit of my approach. But they suggested some changes and want to see something in writing,” he said.

        Mr. Stumbo said he would put a proposal in writing by Monday.

        House Democratic Caucus Chairman Jim Callahan, of Wilder, said, “We are trying to put something together, something we believe will be a reasonable offer. But I'm not sure what the Republicans can accept.”

        House Speaker Jody Richards, D-Bowling Green, said he has called a meeting of all House Democrats for Thursday to gauge members' support for the plan.

        Mr. Stumbo said he has a new approach that will address Republicans' concerns yet achieve the goals of the Democrats by keeping a level playing field for all gubernatorial candidates and capping spending.

        The House and Senate failed to pass a budget during the regular session and a special session. The breakdown was over funding a 1992 law that gives $2 in state money for every $1 raised in private contributions for gubernatorial candidates who agree to a ceiling on campaign spending.

        Senate Republicans, who oppose including the funding, say the program will cost taxpayers about $30 million in the 2003 gubernatorial elections. House Democrats, who support the funding, put the cost at about $9 million.

        Since the new fiscal year began July 1 without a budget passed by the legislature, state government has been operating under an emergency spending plan issued by Gov. Paul Patton. State Treasurer Jonathan Miller filed a “friendly” lawsuit against the administration, asking the court to declare the plan is constitutional.

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