| KOSE Press Release |
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KOSE Executive Director Jane Carter Responds to Governor Parkinson’s Proposed Budget Solutions “KOSE members and state employees can breathe a small and temporary sigh of relief in knowing that we will not be suffering any further cuts to the vital services we provide under the budget solutions announced by the Governor. However, with a $106 million budget gap we will remain diligent and mindful of any further action toward cutting the budget. We agree with Governor Parkinson’s statement that; “We cannot balance the budget or protect our schools, public safety and safety-net services without new revenue.” We now urge the Legislature to implement these sensible changes the Governor outlined in his press conference because we cannot cut our way out of this current crisis. The Governor is also correct when he addressed the recent tax cuts and how they have not affected one average citizen but have feathered the nest of special interests. Simply put, they have not generated the amount of revenue that some had hoped for and that is why we must look at real solutions such as raising revenue. We all understand these types of cuts are designed to carry us through this crisis; however, they will only provide a temporary fix and will not solve our long term problems. When the Governor called for a revenue increase he was not only right in doing so, but he is setting the right kind of example for our Legislature. We cannot face any more devastating cuts. Raising revenue is the only option and only solution. State Employees and KOSE members provide the vital services that maintain our roads, hospitals, and public safety—we care for the most vulnerable of Kansas and we know what their needs are. That is why we agree with the Governor’s sensible approach to our budget shortfalls and that is also why we will keep the pressure on the Legislature should they try once again to balance this budget on the backs of our state workers.” ### |