Statement of Governor Sonny Perdue Regarding Passage of Education Legislation by the Senate

Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue stated today: "Our State Senate once again has taken the lead in passing legislation. Today's passage of education reform legislation is what the citizens of Georgia called for. Our S.T.A.R.S. legislation is good for teachers, parents, administrators, and most importantly it is good for our students.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to Senator Joey Brush for his diligent work as Education Committee Chairman and our Senate leadership for the key role they played in getting this important legislation passed.

Today, the State Senate took an exciting first step in the process of education reform. I am appreciative of those legislators that chose to vote on behalf of the best interests of the students of Georgia.

I remain hopeful that the State House of Representatives will recognize the need to take action on this important legislation. Sadly, the original House version of the education bill remains in the House Education Committee. Having neglected to act on the House version, I remain hopeful that the House leadership and its Education Committee to be guided first by the needs of Georgia's students, parents and educators and not by partisan politics.

This issue is too important to be guided by any factors other than merit and the needs of Georgia's citizens. I urge the members of the House to act on these critical bills. Our children deserve nothing less."