I’ve been investigating the proposed cuts to education that Governor Tim Kaine released earlier this week. It shouldn’t be surprised that education would be taking a large, $400 million, hit in light of the state’s $2+ billion shortfal. Everyone understands that education is a major expense for the state, and that it’s one of the first programs targeting when budget cuts need to be made.

Even before the proposed cuts, John LaCombe, candidate in the special election in the 81st, has stood on the side of preserving and expanding funding for education. It didn’t come as any surprise to me that LaCombe is standing firmly against the $400 million in proposed cuts in state spending on education. Here’s a statement his campaign released earlier:

John stands with students, parents, and teachers against cuts in education funding.

Virginia Beach, VA, December 18, 2008:  John LaCombe, Democratic candidate for the House of Delegates 81st District, releases the following statement concerning Gov. Tim Kaine’s budget recommendations…

“While I applaud the Governor’s efforts to close the projected budget shortfall, I must stand with students, parents and teachers against any cuts in education funding.  Education spending represents an important investment in our future, and I will not stand silent while Richmond considers cutting funds for the education of our children.  We must thoroughly consider other options, including increased funding from the revenue stabilization fund or decreased spending in transportation infrastructure that might be offset by inclusion in President – Elect Obama’s proposed economic stimulus plan.  As a candidate for office and, should I be elected on January 6, as a Delegate of the 81st district, I will fight to protect our investment in the future of our commonwealth by opposing any efforts to advance short term solutions with such negative long term consequences. We must change the way Richmond works by listening to the people of our great commonwealth, and the people do not want Richmond bureaucrats to raid the education budget.

I look forward to working with Gov. Kaine, as well as Democrats and Republicans in the House, to find real long term solutions to our budget crisis. We must remember that we will not move Virginia forward by cutting our investment in it’s future.”
 
Source: John LaCombe Campaign for Delegate

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