OPINION: Failed veto override on education funding put politics over kids

Last week, by a single vote, the Legislature failed to override the governor’s veto of Senate Bill 140, a crucial piece of bipartisan legislation that would have provided much-needed funding for public education, as well as support for home-schooling, student transportation, reading intervention, rural broadband and charter school administration. This bill represented a beacon of hope for our struggling education system, but it was derailed by political maneuvering.

Regrettably, a deciding vote against the override came from our House District 11 representative, Julie Coulombe, who chose to play politics rather than prioritize our children’s futures. The consequences of this decision are dire. Anchorage students and their parents now face the grim reality of larger class sizes, potential cuts to vital programs like IGNITE, and an uncertain future for their children’s education.

Senate Bill 140 was the result of rigorous negotiations and passed with bipartisan support. Rep. Coulombe was one of those initial “yes” votes for SB 140, but then she flip-flopped and voted “no” on the veto override. Our district — and our state — deserve better. We must have leaders who will say “no” to partisan politics and “yes” to the needs and interests of the kids.

As a candidate for the Alaska State House, I am committed to fighting tirelessly for desperately needed funding for our public schools. Every district deserves a representative who will prioritize the needs of our children over political agendas.

Our students deserve better. I urge every member of our community to stand with me in demanding greater investment in public education and holding our elected officials accountable for their decisions. Together, let’s ensure that every child in Alaska receives the quality education they deserve.

Walter Featherly, a candidate for House District 11 on the Hillside, is a former Anchorage School Board member, a graduate of East Anchorage High School and a resident of Alaska since 1966.

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