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June 28, 2007
For more information, contact
Linnae Riesen, WEAC Public Relations Specialist
608-298-2339
WEAC President Stan Johnson has released the following statement praising the Senate’s version of the state budget:
“WEAC members applaud the State Senate for standing up for Wisconsin’s children and public education. The Senate Democrats are leading Wisconsin to make smart investments in our families and our state’s future. These legislators know that investing in education benefits everyone and understand that smart investments in Wisconsin’s future will lead to a vibrant economy and a better future for Wisconsin residents.”
The Senate version of the state budget builds on Governor Doyle’s pro-public education plan for the state to cover two-thirds of the cost of public education, boost categorical aid and provide revenue cap relief.
The Senate version also provides aid to small rural districts and high-poverty districts, supplemental special education funding, grant dollars for nursing services and full funding of the state’s promise to increase the SAGE per pupil reimbursement to $2,250. It offers a three-year declining enrollment adjustment to school districts and allows revenue limits to increase for school safety expenditures and school nurse compensation costs.
The Senate’s budget also includes a bold plan to guarantee quality affordable health care for every Wisconsinite through a public private partnership which lowers costs while guaranteeing access and choice. Healthy Wisconsin will complement Governor Doyle’s BadgerCare Plus plan to guarantee that every child has access to quality health care.
The Senate has also restored Governor Doyle’s proposal to repeal the unfair Qualified Economic Offer (QEO) law.
“The QEO must go if Wisconsin is to recruit and retain the best and the brightest educators. Great schools depend on great teachers and staff, and teachers deserve to fully participate in the educational process and receive equal treatment under the law.”
“We thank the Senate for its leadership in supporting public education and recognizing that great schools benefit everyone.”
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