STATEHOUSE- “I am pleased that we have completed another successful legislative session. This year, as promised, we passed an honestly balanced budget that does not raise taxes on hardworking Hoosier families. With a healthy budget surplus, we were able provide the largest increase to education funding in our state’s history, $474 million over the biennium.
"At approximately $16 billion, over half of our state budget is dedicated to K-12 education. Fortunately, over the next two years, all of our local schools will see at least some increase in funding. I am thankful that our state is in a strong enough position financially to provide this additional money.
"Another benefit of the 2016-17 biennial budget is the $84 million which will be provided to fund the Regional Cities Initiative. With these funds, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation can help attract business and population growth, which are necessary to maintain thriving communities. Elkhart and St. Joseph counties have tremendous potential, and I hope this initiative will help our region soar to new heights.”
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Rep. Wesco (R-Osceola) represents portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
