A Kansas House committee has voted to block a proposal from the governor affecting funding for children’s programs. Governor Sam Brownback has proposed sweeping money for the programs into the state’s general bank account. The move would not reduce funding for the programs, just move it.
Republican Representative Mark Hutton says he’s concerned that would make it easier to take the money for other purposes.
“That’s where it can get pushed to other things. The Children’s Cabinet loses control over where those funds go,” says Hutton.
The House Appropriations Committee approved a budget amendment that would leave the money in the Children’s Initiatives Fund where it currently resides.
The funding is used for early childhood programs, reading programs and other services benefiting children.