But Branstad has said in recent days the measure falls short of what he wanted to accomplish in his last legislative session as governor. After Friday's 27-23 Senate vote, Branstad said he would consult with members of the Commission on Educational Excellence in the 21st Century before deciding what action to take. The commission, chaired by Des Moines businessman Marvin Pomerantz, made recommendations last fall that form the basis of Branstad's reform agenda. Branstad spokesman Eric Woolson insisted the governor's decision to study his options does not mean he is retreating from a veto threat. He remains committed to lasting, meaningful education reform.
Reform is much more than dollars and cents.
But Branstad and lawmakers have locked horns over a smaller piece of the pie, one dealing with merit pay for top teachers. Despite Branstad's threat, Republicans pushed the bill to passage. Sen. Don Redfern, R-Cedar Falls and chairman of the Education Committee, said Branstad should be taking credit for good legislation, not shots at lawmakers. And I hope that when we send this down to you today, that you will accept it, and accept well-deserved credit for your proposals. This is not a perfect bill.