RALEIGH, N.C.  – Several hundred advocates and social service providers are trying to maintain the momentum for raising taxes at the North Carolina Legislature.

Two coalitions held what they called a “state of emergency” rally Monday evening across from the Legislative Building. The speakers urged lawmakers to avoid deep cuts to narrow a budget gap of more than $4 billion.

The state House over the weekend approved its version of the state budget with $784 million in additional taxes. Some member groups say that’s not enough.

Tracy Harrington is a speech pathologist in Pitt County who spoke at the rally. She’s worried she could lose her job and her patients could be harmed if some Medicaid cuts are made.

The House and Senate now must work out a final plan.