|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 24, 2001 |
Contact: Rep. Ken Ito Tel.: 586-8470 |
HOUSE MOVING AHEAD WITH EDUCATION FUNDING
The State House of Representatives is proposing to spend nearly $40 million next fiscal year on computers, textbooks and supplies for students, according to Rep. Ken Ito, Education Committee Chair.
Ito's committee has scheduled a public hearing tomorrow (January 25) where three bills aimed directly at supporting these educational goals are on the agenda.
"It's time to fulfill our promises. As politicians, we like to say education is our priority. These bills leave no doubt that we are very serious about supporting students and teachers," Ito said. "I have to believe that committee members will support them."
The bills include:
House Bill 178, appropriating $6 million in general funds for schools supplies;
House Bill 179, appropriating $27.5 million in general funds for computers; and
House Bill 180, appropriating $7 million in general funds for textbooks.
"Every year the federal government rates public schools in all 50 states and we consistently are at the bottom of the list in these areas," Ito said. "The time to change that is long overdue."
The Education Committee hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. in State Capitol Conference Room 329.
#####