Democrats say Pence budget plan shortchanges public schools

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Democratic lawmakers say the budget proposal from Republican Gov. Mike Pence will do little to help Indiana's public schools while directing more money toward charter schools and the state's private school voucher program.

The Pence budget plan presented to legislators on Thursday would give 2 percent and 1 percent increases in school funding over the next two years. That would mean $134 million more for schools next year, with $41 million going to boost charter school funding and $4 million in additional voucher spending.

Democratic Rep. Terry Goodin of Austin says the governor's proposal picks charter and private schools as winners while leaving traditional public schools behind.

Democrats also criticize Pence's plan for not adding money for needs such as hiring more child welfare case workers.