By Howard Koplowitz
The proposals were unveiled in his budget address to the state Legislature earlier this month and his proposed budget for 2006-2007.The $634 million increase Pataki proposes to fund education, which would bring the total amount of funding to $16.95 billion, represents the largest increase in school aid recommended by any governor. It is a 3.9 percent increase from funds allocated last year.”I will propose and urge that a significant part of that record increase be targeted to high-needs school districts, both in New York City and across the state,” Pataki said in his budget address.He also said the $500 tax credit would allow parents to pay for “special tutoring, after-school programs, summer programs or alternatives to under-performing schools.””This will enhance children's educational opportunities and give parents greater involvement in the decisions that shape their children's education,” he said.Also part of the governor's proposed budget is $1.6 billion for the construction of school facilities, a $77 million increase from last year.The governor's budget is only his recommendations. The process must go through negotiations with the leaders of the state Senate and Assembly, when a final budget is then enacted.In addressing energy, Pataki also is calling for a tax credit to consumers who buy a hybrid car since the green energy cars cost more than gasoline-guzzling vehicles.Reach reporter Howard Koplowitz by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 173
