Gov. Robert Bentley introduced a proposed budget cutting state agencies by 25 percent, while keeping prison funding secure and adding charter schools into the mix. Services for children and elders in need will also be protected, he said.
He has also asked that the long-protected education trust fund be mixed into the general fund—enabling other state agencies to tap money raised to support schools.
The governor also proposed borrowing funds to improve roads and bridges.
He said in his state of the state address in February that he continues to oppose any taxation to fill the financial gap.
His proposals drew immediate fire from the Alabama Education Association because he would cut teacher pay, increase class sizes and add charter schools.Â
By Nedra Bloom
