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Mon: White Smoke?
posted at 2009-08-03 17:08 | Last modified 2009-08-03 17:08
For a while this afternoon, it didn't look good for the much-vaunted budget deal. Over the weekend, the K-6 class-size protection deal suddenly shrank to just K-3.
You'd think this wouldn't fly with Governor Bev Perdue, who'd said protecting classrooms was one of her top priorities. And when the big chairs went behind closed doors with Perdue's people this afternoon, it appeared the deal might be delayed -- or off altogether.
But just a few minutes ago, this statement came in from Perdue:
"As North Carolina continues to suffer from the global recession, I've laid out to the citizens of North Carolina and to the General Assembly my budget priorities: 1) Raise revenue to shield North Carolina's public school system and core services from massive cuts, and 2) avoid raising across-the-board income taxes on working families in North Carolina.
"While sacrifices will be made, I still believe the General Assembly is moving toward consensus on my budget priorities and a budget agreement is within sight."
So does this mean she's ready to sign off on the K-3 change? Sure sounds that way. We'll find out more shortly. Caucus leaders are expected to present the details to their rank-and-file members tonight at 6pm.
More when I can.
Comments? Drop me a line.
