Bonacic Works To Resolve School Districts' Aid Shortfall

State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/I/C- Mount Hope) has introduced legislation to allow the Sullivan West School District and the Tri-Valley School District to be reimbursed for transportation expenses incurred during the 2003-04 and 2004-05 school years. Due to an error on the part of both school districts, the respective transportation contracts were not approved by the Department of Education for reimbursement. The Bonacic bills validate those transportation contracts.

"Our school districts cannot afford to lose any funding and our taxpayers cannot be expected to carry any more of that burden," stated Senator Bonacic. "Human error happens and I am pleased to be able to assist these school districts in obtaining the State aid due to them."

Senate bill 6632, which legalizes the transportation contracts for the Sullivan West School District for the 2004-05 school year, is currently awaiting consideration in the Senate Education Committee. Senate bill 6684, which legalizes the transportation contracts for the Tri Valley School District for the 2003-04 and 2004-05 school years is also awaiting consideration in the Senate Education Committee. Both bills are sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther.

Senate Bonacic concluded, "I anticipate passage of these measures during this year’s Session. I will continue to do all I can to fully support the school districts of the 42nd Senate District."