Alaska Democratic Party Reproaches Governor’s Public Education Funding Veto
After a much needed funding increase for public schools was adopted by the Alaska State Legislature, the ADP condemns Dunleavy’s veto
June 20, 2023
CONTACT: Shayla Freirich
(907) 531-2086
ANCHORAGE: The Alaska Democratic Party (ADP) condemns Governor Dunleavy’s veto of a desperately needed increase in public school funding approved by the Alaska State Legislature. Alaska’s public schools have been underfunded for years resulting in decreased programs, teacher shortages, and even plans for potential school closures. Increased funding for education had bi-partisan support this year in the legislature and was an immediate priority of the majority bi-partisan coalition in the state Senate.
Senator Löki Tobin, Chair of the Senate Education Committee, sponsored Senate Bill 52, which raises the Base Student Allocation (BSA) to $680 for school programs, including student transportation. This increase would be instrumental to developing accessible high quality school programs.
“Adequate funding for schools to meet the basic needs of Alaska’s youth is not a partisan issue and should never be on the chopping block. It’s the responsibility of every elected official,” said Executive Director Lindsay Kavanaugh, “Indications the Governor vetoed this funding because of ‘inflationary pressures’ just shows how uninterested and unconcerned he is about Alaskans and their future.”
