Wow, what a change for our spring activities folks from one year to the next. Last year we battled snow and cold weather all the way through the seasons and nearly right up until the end of them. This year, of course, coaches are able to get their kids outside and even on the fields and track early which will obviously help them with their workouts as they begin their seasons. However, (knock wood) we know that even though Tuesday was the official start of spring, mother nature can surprise us through April and May.
I can remember when I first arrived here seven years ago that the even year sessions at the Capitol were reserved for what was referred to as a “bonding year”. During this session there were very few bills that were introduced, according to my recollection, other than what the state lawmakers decided what was going to be construction projects for which bonds were to be sold. This seemed to make the session relatively short and somewhat simple, although the lawmaking process is never simple.
This program is quite a contrast to what is happening at the Capitol currently, much of which doesn’t seem to get a lot of coverage in the media. One bill that is getting some attention is the right to work constitutional amendment which the Senate Judiciary Committee passed to place the question on a ballot for the public decide by vote. This bill would give workers the choice to opt out of joining a union and paying dues. This must still be passed by the full Senate and the House has not scheduled a hearing on this yet.
There is also a bill to use $430 million from the state’s newly found reserves to pay back the school shift to fund the districts at 70.2% (currently at 60%) of our aid that is due. However, there always seems to be a however, this also includes some language that is not supported by a number of groups throughout the state, including what is called LIFO. LIFO stands for last in first out, which under current law is how schools must lay off teachers in the event of budget cutting scenarios. New language would add other factors to this, including teacher evaluation and others. I wouldn’t expect this bill, even if passed to make a great deal of difference in the way schools have gone about this process. More in a couple weeks. Have a great spring break. Thanks for your support of our kids.