Stealing from schools is not a solution

January 16, 2012

Governor McDonnell's proposed budget would divert more money away from schools and other programs to pay for transportation costs. The Richmond Times-Dispatch's PolitiFact ranked "True" State Senator Donald McEachin's assertion that McDonnell is taking money away from classrooms to pay fix roads.

Progressive Point: Virginia deserves better than Bob McDonnell's budget gimmicks. Taking money away from schools to pave roads is not a solution. Virginians need a budget that doesn't force a choice between funding our transportation needs and the needs of our students.

A responsible solution to paying for government's commitments to its citizens is a balanced approach that raises revenue by reforming egregious tax loopholes and giveaways. Over 60% of Virginia corporations pay no income tax but Pass the Buck Bob would rather steal money from schools than consider ensuring they pay their fair share. Virginia cannot allow Bob McDonnell to pay for roads with the money that is supposed to be spent on our children's education.

Get the Facts:

• The targets of McDonnell's budget cuts include Pre-K programs, Medicaid, indigent care, and long-term care. McDonnell's budget does not include proposals to close the tax loopholes and giveaways that riddle Virginia's tax code. (Associated Press/Washington Post, December 19, 2011


• Virginia loses $12.5 billion in revenue a year through credits and giveaways that receive little-to-no scrutiny and accountability. (JLARC)


• McDonnell is costing our classrooms by refusing to adjust K-12 funding for inflation and earmarking 78% of his "new education money" to replenish the teacher's retirement system, not educating students. (Washington Post, December 20, 2011)


• The Governor's cuts to preschool education are short-sighted as "Strong preschool intervention is a clear indicator of future success, including higher graduation rates and lower incidence of crime. In some areas, preschool programs are even being promoted by business leaders as an essential economic development tool." (Daily Press, December 20, 2011)

Tweet it: Stealing from schools is not a solution http://bit.ly/xEEx17 #passthebuckbob via @ProgressVA

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