Richmond, Virginia (February 15, 2008) – Close review of Governor Timothy Kaine's budget recommendations reveal significant cuts in direct state aid to Prince William County. Kaine's reductions come in the wake of a billion-dollar revenue shortfall, largely due to overly optimistic forecasts by his administration.

“With the huge growth of the state budget over the last decade, I have a healthy appreciation for pulling back, and at a minimum, slowing the growth of spending”, said Delegate Jeff Frederick, who represents eastern Prince William. “Yet, part of that effort should be to better prioritize what we will spend, and transportation and education should be top priorities – not the first things cut upon the first signs of budget problems”, he added.

In Kaine's latest revisions to his 2009-2010 proposed budget, he reduces state funding for teacher salary increase; school construction grants; school facilities; primary, secondary, and unpaved roads, among other things. Of the nearly $44 million in cuts, over $23 million of that is road money, and our schools would see a $14.6 million reduction.

In the same recommendations, Kaine also proposes more than $300 million in new spending for new programs and projects.

“I will work with my colleagues in the House to make sure that these much needed funds for our roads and schools will be restored and ultimately be included in the budget that is enacted in March”, Frederick said.