MADISON, Wis (WSAU-Wheeler News) The finance committee expects to wrap up its review of the state budget next week. It then goes to both houses for final changes and approvals. Minority Democrats extended the education debate last night by proposing a host of amendments — none of which were approved. Senate Democrat Lena Taylor said the G-O-P “raped” Milwaukee public school students by taking away millions to help fund the private school vouchers. Assembly Republican Dale Kooyenga of Brookfield called Taylor’s comment “sick.” He said the G-O-P is trying to solve problems and improve performance, instead of just raising taxes.
Disability rights’ groups scrambled to oppose the vouchers for special needs’ students, which were rejected twice in recent years and suddenly emerged as a budget item yesterday. They said it would take away federal protections kids get in the public schools. But Assembly Republican Mary Cjaza (chy-uh) of Irma said it’s all about giving parents more choices.
