TEXAS DEMS PREVENT STATE FROM DIVERTING EDUCATION FUNDS
Written by Post Public Information Representative, Jul 3, 2010, 0 Comments
Courtesy Ashley Patterson,
Congress Passes Measure to Protect Texas Education Funding
Washington, DC – Today, the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation issued the following statement regarding a provision contained in the House-passed 2010 Supplemental Appropriations Act to prevent the state of Texas from diverting $820 million in emergency education jobs funding for non-educational use. Last year, Texas state leaders diverted to its rainy day fund $3.25 billion in federal Recovery Act funds that were intended to support Texas public schools.
“Last year, we voted for the Economic Recovery Act, which included $3.25 billion to support local Texas school districts. But instead of using these funds as Congress intended, State Republican Leadership used them to replace state education funding, thereby denying an increase in support for our local school districts.
“We want to ensure that any new emergency funds Congress provides for education actually help our Texas schools. We have requested additional protections be incorporated into any Supplemental Appropriations legislation specifically for Texas schoolchildren to ensure local districts actually receive this federal help. These protections will ensure that the $820 million in new emergency federal funds for education go to preserve teacher jobs throughout the State and meet other local education needs.
“These funds would go to local schools as long as the Governor certifies that (1) federal funds are not used merely to replace state education support, and (2) education funding will not be cut proportionally more than any other item in the upcoming Texas General Appropriations Act. This prevents any further shell games with federal education dollars at the expense of local schools districts. This approach has been endorsed by Texas statewide education organizations representing teachers, principals, school boards, school administrators, and nearly 40 superintendents.
“A solid education is the foundation on which our economy and our democracy rest. Our support for our local school districts reflects a two-fold understanding: First, local districts know best what the needs of their students, teachers, and administrators are. Second, especially in times of a difficult economy, we need to invest in our schools.
“Our language helps ensure local school districts in Texas have the support they need.”
The statement (attached) was signed by U.S. Representatives Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Solomon Ortiz (TX-27), Lloyd Doggett (TX-25), Charlie González (TX-20), Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15), Al Green (TX-9), Gene Green (TX-29), Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Silvestre Reyes (TX-16), Ciro Rodriguez (TX-23) and Chet Edwards (TX-17).
To see a copy of the bill language specific to Texas , please visit: Page 14 at the following link here.
