25 June 2005

Governor urges Legislature to act to strengthen schools

TOPEKA, Kan. – The following is the text of the statement Governor Kathleen Sebelius delivered at a news conference today:

Almost three weeks ago, I met with the leaders of both the House and Senate. I talked with them about how we needed to work together to have a productive special session; to develop a plan that invests in our schools, increases accountability and protects taxpayers – a plan that all four leaders could vote for and I could sign.

Since then I’ve been working with members of both parties on a solution that improves schools, increases accountability, and protects taxpayers.

The Senate committees met and acted, and the Senate quickly passed a responsible plan for our schools with the support of Republicans and Democrats.

That plan provides help for Kansas schoolchildren, holds schools accountable for the tax dollars they spend, and provides property tax relief.

I support the Senate education plan. If it is funded, and I hope it will be, it is a responsible solution to the challenges facing our schools and our economy. I call upon the House to pass it, and pass it quickly.

Certainly, the Legislature needs to find a way to pay for what it spends. I’ve said gaming is the way to do that. The Legislature cannot continue to spend more than it takes in without damaging our economy.

I’m committed to continuing to work with the Legislature until their job is done.