The Kansas House of Representatives began debate today on the FY 2009 budget. The proposed budget bill removes or significantly reduces funding for Kansas seniors, children, veterans and students. These urgent priorities reflect the most important values of the state, which is why House Democrats stood in opposition to the bill.

“We can implement a responsible budget without striking opportunities for Kansans who need them most,” said House Democratic Leader Dennis McKinney, Greensburg. “House Democrats cannot support a budget bill that does not provide for our neighbors, our aging parents or our children.”

The proposed FY 2009 budget spends over $13 billion dollars but ignores a number of key items that reflect Kansas values:

• Fails to support Home and Community Based Services, which help seniors remain in their homes
• Fails to provide funding for Nutrition programs for our homebound elderly.
• Fails to provide early childhood developmental services, including all-day kindergarten.
• Eliminates all funding for veteran services.
• Cuts higher education, making it more difficult for Kansas institutions of higher learning to meet the demands of a global economy.

Lawmakers have a responsibility to invest in the state’s future. Failing to provide for education, refusing to fund health care reform and eliminating necessary social services will only move Kansas in the wrong direction.

House Democrats remain committed to developing a responsible state budget that reflects the priorities and values of Kansas communities.