State Budget Battle Continues

Several State Assembly budget subcommittees are trying to reduce Governor Gray Davis´ proposed 844 million dollars in education cuts. The Governor wants to cut 2.2 billion dollars from this year´s budget to offset rising deficits. The reduced funding would affect kindergarten through 12th grade.

So far, legislators have suggested suspending a program that gives monetary rewards to school staffs that improve student performance. A 40 million dollar reduction in funds for a math and reading training program has also been discussed. At this point, assembly Democrats favor the majority of cuts proposed by the governor but both sides agree they would like to see the 844 million in eduction cuts trimmed back. A final vote on the budget cuts is expected next week.