Every two years the General Assembly is required by the constitution to create a state budget for the next two fiscal years. As vice chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee I worked extensively to create a budget for fiscal years 2012-2013 that would not raise taxes on Hoosiers and would be structurally balanced at the end of that period. I am happy to say that we accomplished that goal and that many state programs will continue to progress. After projected revenues were higher than expected this year we were able to put more funding toward K-12 education and full day kindergarten across the entire state; $150 million will be put towards schools in Indiana and $47 million of that will go toward full day kindergarten. Education makes up about half of our state budget and I am very happy we can further fund such an invaluable resource like our children's education. Indiana is unique in the fact that we have been able to balance the budget without raising taxes as many states have had to do. Many states have also had to continue to cut education funding while Indiana is able to increase funding from our last budget. We are poised to continue to lead the nation out of this recession and become a more prosperous state for all Hoosiers. Many local programs will continue to receive funding, as well, including a new teacher theatre at the University of Southern Indiana (USI). It was announced by the State Budget Agency that USI will receive $13 million to construct and finance the project. The project will replace the existing theatre, costume shop and scene shop at USI. The proposed theatre will be approximately 21,929 square feet, will seat approximately 350 people, and will be constructed adjacent to the University Center. USI's enrollment is rapidly increasing and we want to ensure they have the best resources possible. Replacing the teacher theatre will improve the education opportunities for the students involved in the program and I was happy to see this project approved so that they may further strengthen their theatre programs and more easily hold student and outside performances. The budget also included funding for two programs of local interest: the Lincoln Amphitheater and the Evansville Psychiatric Children's Center. The governor signed the $28 billion two-year budget bill last week and it will go into effect July 1, 2012. We spent many hours listening to Hoosiers testify about state programs that affected them and I am happy that this budget will create more gain than pain for Hoosiers. Thank you for your continued support and for your feedback over session. Please continue to contact me with your questions and concerns. I will be sure to keep you updated on legislative events throughout the rest of the year. Enjoy the warm weather! |
