Tuesday, March 8

Today I accomplished several more tasks.  For instance, a seating chart underneath the glass on the desk is now color-coded for each party.  How handy!  In the afternoon debate began. SF 209, HF 148, HF 186, HF 212, HF 254*, HF 268, and HF 535 were debated and passed.  HF 254 was brought forth by Iverson; it was the first time I've heard him talk on the floor.

For the second time, the issue of preschool was debated.  Way back in January, HF 45 was debated, and it took away funding for preschool.  Tonight, HF 535 created "preschool scholarships" for qualifying families.  THe Democrats argued that the bill "was a complete mess" and they asked Rep. Forristall countless questions about transportation to preschool, placement, and teacher qualifications.  It all is a very confusing program (which was put together by the governor's office).  Personally, I think the current system, while expensive, works well and I would like to see it tweaked instead of replaced.  I predict that  it will be confusing for parents and school districts to comply.  Lastly, as far as I can tell it even increased the government's involvement from what it has been.  In my ever-so-humble opinion, a better, more complete program can be produced.  It passed only 55-45; that means that five Republicans probably had the same thoughts I did and voted on the side of the Democrats.  I think this is the first time this has happened on a major vote.

But the bill is supposed to die (the majority leader won't let it be debated) in the Senate, so the hours of bickering like preschoolers were only for "going on the record".

Tomorrow will be a big day: the collective bargaining bill (HF 525) is being debated.  It has something like 97 (that's ninety-seven!!!) amendments.  Just imagine if all of them were passed---would there be a HF 525??  My expert prediction is that any amendment brought forth by a Republican will pass, and any amendment brought forth by a Democrat (unless it is a technical fix) will not pass.  The bill itself will pass.  Remember that the Majority Leader will only put a bill on the floor when she knows she has 51 votes to pass it.