Jon Tester Delivers Results for Education
Here is a summary of Jon’s record on key education issues at the 2005 legislative sessions:
Definition of Quality Education (SB 152) Tester led Senate Democrats in passing a definition of quality education at the 2005 regular session. SB 152 drew on a deep base of studies and literature to fully define the basic system of quality education written in the Montana Constitution. While Republicans in the Senate dug in their heels in opposition to the bill, Senate Democrats stood strong, demanding a system of quality education for educators and our children and grandchildren. The bill sets a solid foundation for an education system that develops the full potential of every child and grows with Montana communities.
School Funding (HB 63) With Tester’s support, HB 63 provided groundbreaking appropriations for Indian Education for All and $80 million in additional funding for K-12 education. The bill gave aid and financial security to school districts and set the stage for stronger reform in the special session.
Quality Schools Interim Study (SB 525) Tester sponsored legislation to create the Quality Schools Interim Committee. The committee met more than 21 times to design a new funding formula based on the definition of a quality education approved at the 2005 regular legislative session. Prior to the December 1 deadline, the committee successfully completed its work, assessing educational needs, determining costs, and constructing a sound funding formula.
School Funding (Special Session SB 1) In the Quality Schools Interim Committee, Tester helped write legislation to make an unprecedented investment in Montana’s education system. Tester and Democrats in the Legislature kept promises to kids, teachers, schools and communities by investing $37 million in K-12 education on an ongoing basis. The committee’s proposal also included significant one-time funds for Indian Education for All, deferred building-maintenance, transportation, and utility costs.
Retirement System Appropriations (Special Session HB 1) Tester also helped write legislation to cut the unfunded liability in the state’s Teacher’s Retirement System and Public Employees Retirement System. This legislation directly addressed issues surrounding retirement and retention of public employees and educators by securing the financial future of their retirement plans.
State Employee Pay Plan (HB 447) Tester supported and helped pass the first significant pay increase for state workers since 1991. The negotiated pay plan passed the House and Senate despite Republican attempts to ignore the agreement. A handshake still means something in Montana.
Posted on Monday, April 24th, 2006 at 11:35 pm.
