Budget Approval Priorities Draw Criticism in Kentucky
Kentucky Budget Approval Draws Criticism for Excluding Teacher Raises and Retiree Payments
FRANKFORT – In Kentucky, state lawmakers have passed a budget bill totaling over $100 billion set to include 3% pay raises for state employees and some increases in education spending. However, the budget approval does not allocate dedicated pay raises for teachers or provide extra payments for state retirees which has drawn criticism from some quarters.
While the budget offers modest increases in per pupil education funding it falls short of providing raises for teachers despite calls from Governor Beshear for an 11% raise. Additionally, the exclusion of an extra payment for state retirees has disappointed many. Critics argue that the budgets focus on tax cuts and its failure to tap into the state’s substantial rainy day fund neglects essential social services and education needs.
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13th Check’ in Budget Approval – Kentucky Retirees Miss Out on Anticipated! (PHOTO: The Courier-Journal)
Budget Approval Allocation Raises Concerns Over Community Needs
Furthermore, the budget allocates funds for specific projects in Louisville such as downtown revitalization and support for the completion of the Harbor House campus. However, it lacks substantial provisions for affordable housing, raising concerns about addressing pressing community needs. Overall, while the budget aims to balance spending and tax cuts its priorities have sparked debate over whether it adequately serves the interests of Kentucky’s residents.
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