The House Education Committee Tuesday killed the Charter Schools bill (SB 2401) by a vote of 15-16.
Those voting to kill the legislation were: Bain, Burnett, Calhoun, Clark, Dickson, Evans, Gardner, Hamilton, Holloway, Jennings, Massengill, Nelson, Straughter, Thomas, Weathersby, and Whittington.
In all five Republicans voted “No” – Hamilton, Jennings, Massengill, Nelson, and Weathersby.
Hamilton, Jennings and Nelson are from heavily education sensitive Desoto County.
These five are sure to become a blip on many conservatives’ radar screens after not supporting this milestone legislation.
Gov. Phil Bryant wasted no time in expressing his displeasure with the House Education Committee’s actions, going as far as to promote a possible Special Session in the Regular Session to resolve this matter. He said in a statement:
“I am disappointed that the charter school bill failed to pass in the House Committee today but appreciate Speaker Gunn and Chairman Moore’s efforts in attempting to pass this very important legislation,” Gov. Bryant said. Creating public charter schools is one way to give our children another opportunity to succeed. I am considering calling a special session within the session to give lawmakers additional time to develop a workable public charter school bill. We must stop accepting failing schools that do not give kids the opportunities they deserve.”
Mississippi Senate members were reportedly considering amending a Senate bill to include the Charter Schools language which would then be sent to the House for a full chamber vote, circumventing the House Education Committee. This potential option is still hypothetical at this point but could come to fruition if Lt. Governor Tate Reeves and his leadership team decide to find ways to resurrect the legislation rather than waiting to see if Gov. Bryant calls a Special Session.
It has also been reported that Rep. Reecy Dickson (D) was shoved or pushed in some manner by what liberal blogs and media sources are calling a “Tea Party member.” Capitol Police were called to investigate the matter, however we have no updates on this at this time.
