Jun. 02, 2015
HARRISBURG – For colleagues of state Rep. Will Tallman (R-Adams/Cumberland), opposing standardized testing is just as important as increasing funding for libraries.
“Some members on the House floor were just as excited about decreasing the amount of money earmarked for assessment testing in schools as they were about further funding our state library system,” said Tallman, who sits on the House Education Committee. “In fact, they would be happy if we got rid of these testing mechanisms all together.”
Tallman’s amendment to
House Bill 1192, the primary budget bill for the 2015-16 fiscal year, would increase the public library subsidy by $2 million (a nearly four percent increase) more than originally proposed (Gov. Tom Wolf’s budget proposal failed to include an increase for public library funding). The money was moved from the line item that facilitates two of Pennsylvania’s public school testing vehicles - the controversial Keystone Exams and the PSSA (Pennsylvania System of School Assessment) test.
“Library systems across the state are struggling to stay afloat,” added Tallman. “They exist on a combination of county and state funding and have been the victims of cuts in prior years.
“Libraries continue to provide a valuable service to our local communities. Only six of my colleagues voted against the amendment, which shows me there is overwhelming support for library funding and against the student testing system we have in place.”
House Bill 1192 awaits a vote on final passage before being sent to the state Senate.
“I hope my Senate colleagues and Gov. Wolf will agree to keep this change to the budget in place as we go through the negotiating process.”
Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to Tallman’s district office at (717) 259-7805 or 1-877-480-9525.
Representative Will Tallman
193rd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Scott Little
717.260.6137
slittle@pahousegop.com
RepWillTallman.com /
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