I am disappointed, though, that the proposal contains no funds for class-size reduction or to increase reimbursements to school districts for the costs of new buildings or renovating old ones. School reimbursement rates have not changed since 1987. The most glaring omission in this budget is the Republicans' failure to take seriously the need for real property tax relief for seniors and middle-class families. I had hoped that last year's step forward on the issue would inspire the governor to expand on the progress. I'm disappointed it did not.
Property taxes continue to rise.
That's a fact. Homeowners need relief. That's a fact. The legislature must act. The state budget is one of the most important pieces of legislation we pass on behalf of taxpayers each year.