Letter to the Editor

THE PUBLIC MIND: REP. KASTEN EXPLAINS STANCE ON EDUCATION TAX LEGISLATION

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Dear Citizens of the 159th District:

As your legislator, I would like to explain the current situation of the education bill. The easiest decision one could make when a proposed tax increase is the issue would be simply to put the proposal to the voters and let them vote it up or down.

As your state representative, I do not believe this is a responsible conclusion for the issue which is now being considered by the General Assembly. Granted there are many needs for financial support for schools, institutions, agencies, etc. in our state. We are fortunate in Cape Girardeau to have a fine public school system in elementary, secondary, in private, parochial and an outstanding university. I value these educational advantages greatly and their influence on the continuing development of our region is immeasurable. Any idea that I am not interested in promoting the educational systems in Cape Girardeau is completely erroneous. To be a responsible legislator, I must look at the big picture and vote for something in the legislature that is needed, and acceptable to the people when put before them for a vote. This would mean that all of the areas that truly do need money cannot be funded at the same time. It is my hope that comprises will be worked out that would eventually lead to a proposal that would be passable and workable.

One scenario that is being discussed on this proposed educational bill is the inequality in funding elementary and secondary education in the foundation formula. Resolution of this issue is vital at this time because of litigation pertaining to this inequality against the state. I support the funding of this formula more adequately by a budget increase within the limits of the Hancock Amendment which would mean the decision can be made through the legislative process.

I preferred a package of proposals regarding higher ed, and a portion for human services to go to the vote of the people. This line of thinking had considerable support; however, this is not the issue at the moment. What will happen in this week is hard to forecast. There are those of us who have been working to create a package of basic needs for elementary, secondary, higher and human needs in a monetary range that we feel would be passed by the people.

It is my sincere conviction that if a large package goes out for public vote and is defeated, that we will lose all support for school funding for the next several years. In light of the national economic picture and the global competition in economics, additional burdens of taxes must be explained and justified in order to glean the support needed for their passage.

I commit to you my determination to support legislation that will improve funding in schools, and still be acceptable to the public.

Warmest regards,

Mary Kasten