Breitbach: Proposed increase in state funding for schools is too high

State Senator Michael Breitbach of Strawberry Point is criticizing the proposal by Iowa Senate Democrats for a four percent increase in 2014's Allowable Growth formula for Iowa school district funding.

Says Breitbach, "The Democratic proposal would continue the practice of taking away local control from districts, demanding they meet state directives instead.  These directives are part of the system that needs an overhaul."

The Democratic proposal would cost $135 million.  Says Breitbach, "Senate Republicans support responsible spending practices that do not overcommit state budget resources. We do not want state spending to continue to grow at a rate that outpaces increases in revenue."

Breitbach says Senate Republicans will be "a voice of reason" in discussions about school funding for 2014.