Rep. Ty Harrell and his wife are separating.

On July 2, the Raleigh Democrat's wife sued him, claiming that he had engaged in an extra-marital affair. She is seeking custody of their two children and postseparation support.

The couple married in 1991. Harrell said Wednesday that he has not seen the filing and would not comment on its allegations.

"This is a challenging time in my life," Harrell said. "My main focus is on the continuing well-being of my two sons."

You'd pay more to get married and divorced under the House budget.

Budget writers in the House avoided raising taxes, instead adding several free increases, including a $10 hike in the cost of a marriage license and a divorce filing.

Democrats noted that the additional money will go for related services. For example, an increase in the newborn screening fee will help check for additional diseases. 

Republican legislators said after three years of raising taxes in a row, this budget is more likable.

"The last three budgets have been big tax increases with super spending sprees," said House Republican Leader Paul Stam. "This one's on a diet. It's more tempting [to vote for]." 

Other fee increases: Selling stock, building hospitals, removing asbestos and logging. (Char-O)