Just before a Senate vote on the bill last week, Governor Jim Doyle said he'd veto virtual school legislation if it didn't cap enrollment and require a financial study of the programs. The Senate amended the measure to meet his request, even though some lawmakers had already worked out a compromise on the measure.
The Governor's last minute action has drawn complaints from Republicans, who argue the Governor is trying to limit the growth of virtual schools. Doyle says his proposal would allow those programs to stay open, but it also gives the state a chance to review the impact of virtual schools and consider changes that may be needed in the future.
The legislation is needed after an Appellate Court ruled in December that virtual schools don't qualify for state aid. They could be left without public funding if legislation is not passed before the end of the session.
Republicans are trying to restore the compromise that was de-railed in the Senate, with legislation introduced in the Assembly. That measure includes the study requested by the Governor, but removes the enrollment cap. Doyle says he would veto that bill if it makes it to his desk.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (MP3 1:02)
