The Union Leader reported on lawmakers’ deal to increase funding for full-day kindergarten programs by legalizing the online lottery game Keno. Here’s an excerpt:
Democrats wanted the second half of the kindergarten day fully funded at $1,800, but some Republicans in the House were concerned that Keno games would not generate sufficient revenue to support grants of that size.
Bradley’s amendment guarantees at least $1,100, which lawmakers are confident can be paid for from Keno proceeds, even though the state has no experience with the bingo-style game.
According to Bradley’s amendment, the state will fully fund the per pupil grant at $1,800 if Keno revenues are adequate. If not, the grants will be pro-rate per community at a level somewhere between $1,100 and $1,800 depending on exactly how much money is raised through Keno.
The amended bill will go to the full House and Senate chambers for a vote next Thursday, June 22.
Source: Lawmakers strike deal to add full-day kindergarten funded by Keno | Union Leader
