A proposed bill to drastically reduce the administrative role of Wyoming's top state public schools official has cleared two committees.

The proposal would remove the Wyoming Superintendent of public instruction as head of the state department of education. it would create a new director of the agency who would be appointed by the governor. The bill passed the Senate Education Committee by a 5-0 vote and the Senate Appropriations Committee by a 4-1 vote. It now goes to the full Senate.Senate Minority Floor Leader Senator Chris Rothfuss (SD-9), a member of the Senate Education Committee says it may seem like a drastic measure, but it has been discussed for some time.

While I realize it will be blamed on personalities.... I believe this is the best way to go.

Superintendent Cindy Hill spoke against the bill, saying the proposal would take away the voice of the people who elected her and replace it with a bureaucrat.

It's important that the people, there voice is heard... if this is the decision, it should be made through an amendment to the constitution.

One of the main topics of discussion this session will be savings. Senate Majority Floor Leader Senator Phil Nicholas (SD-10) says its important the state saves for the future.

there is also focus to the notion that if we are withdrawing minerals, it's a one time revenue..

The medicaid issue is likely to heat up soon. Senator Bernadine Craft (SD-12) says she is co-sponsoring a bill that calls for the state to participate in the full medicaid expansion proposed by the Affordable Care Act.

and how we can say we need to very fiscal conservative..and then turn down this kind of federal funding..

A bill that would allow the voters to decide if they want to let local governments continue to collect the sixth penny sales tax even after projects will be heard in committee next week. Cheyenne Representative Dan Zwonitzer (HD-43) says it will generate money for local roads.

It's been almost a decade now and now and Wyoming is getting serious about fixing their dilapidated roadways...this would be a proposal to help cities and towns with local roads...

Complete Audio

Sen. Rothfuss on a better system

Cindy Hill on Education bill

Sen. Phil Nicholas on savings

Sen. Bernadine Craft on Medicaid expansion

Rep. Dan Zwonitzer on 6th penny bill

 

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