The Raleigh News & Observer reports that the new state budget contains a provision that caps the state contribution for future light rail projects at $500,000. Previously, the state was picking up 25 percent of construction costs. While the measure is apparently aimed at a proposed $1.6 billion 17-mile Durham to Chapel Hill light rail line, I think it’s a fair reading that the state is unlikely to provide much funding for rail transit construction as long as Republicans control the General Assembly. And yes, CATS Red Line, I’m looking at you.