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Friday, May 10, 2002
Only legislators can raid funds for laptop program
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AUGUSTA — Even though a potential $180 million shortfall looms in the state budget, money set aside for Gov. Angus King's laptop program is safe — at least for now. King is looking for ways to balance the budget in light of lagging collections of personal income taxes. He has said a special session of the Legislature is likely at some point, but not immediately. The shortfall could total $180 million through June 30, 2003, but King is focusing on the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002. He is considering an accelerated transfer of money from the state's Rainy Day Fund to balance the budget. Even if King had his eye on the $25 million fund to provide middle school students with laptop computers, he can't touch it. The money is in a special reserve account that's off-limits unless the Legislature, which has adjourned, decides otherwise. If lawmakers return, the situation could change. Despite his support for the laptop program, King on Thursday said it could become vulnerable in light of the budget pressures. ''I don't know how I can say otherwise,'' King said. But he said a contract to provide the computers has been signed and ''a significant amount of work has already been done'' to get the program going. Maine has awarded a $37 million contract to Apple Computer Inc. to provide iBooks for every seventh- and eighth-grader by the beginning of the 2003-04 school year. Some schools are already getting their laptops.To top of page
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