Gov. Huckabee explains here why he vetoed that bill to fund a science specialist program. It’s going to be up for an override vote of the legislature later this week.

Huckabee is right on principle, but he’s wrong if the only option now is to sustain his veto and end or put a big question mark on a worthy program.

Advertisement

Huckabee is right in griping that this is yet another federal program on which the state inherits the cost now that federal money has run out. He’s right in saying it’s better funded out of general revenue or the huge state surplus. (He’s right in thinking, if he didn’t say it, that legislators are greedy hogs who are rubbing hands with glee at the thought of filling Bigelow potholes in 2007 with that growing surplus.)

But he’s wrong to suggest Higher Education scholarship funds, which will be used for interim support, are imperiled by the small appropriation. There’s a healthy surplus there for a temporary source of money. Let it be spent, but the legislature shouldn’t use funny money to perpetuate the program in 2007.

Advertisement

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Galactic fan checks in on last night’s show Next article Bikers, start your pedals