Education funding plan goes back to committee

Education funding plan goes back to committee

HELENA — Senate Republicans searching for votes on their primary education funding plan sent the measure back to committee for more tinkering.

The Thursday move followed a floor vote on Wednesday where the measure deadlocked 25-25.

Republicans hold a 28-22 advantage in the chamber, but face some opposition from those within their ranks worried about how it treats some resource-rich rural areas. Democrats are opposing it, arguing they like Gov. Brian Schweitzer's education plan better.

Senate leaders have said they may need to take more money out of their education funding plan in order to get enough Republican votes to advance the measure.

House Republicans have been cool toward the idea, and even crafted a main budget bill that prepared for its failure.

HELENA — Senate Republicans searching for votes on their primary education funding plan sent the measure back to committee for more tinkering.

The Thursday move followed a floor vote on Wednesday where the measure deadlocked 25-25.

Republicans hold a 28-22 advantage in the chamber, but face some opposition from those within their ranks worried about how it treats some resource-rich rural areas. Democrats are opposing it, arguing they like Gov. Brian Schweitzer's education plan better.

Senate leaders have said they may need to take more money out of their education funding plan in order to get enough Republican votes to advance the measure.

House Republicans have been cool toward the idea, and even crafted a main budget bill that prepared for its failure.