The governor has plans to expand the laptop program.
By Bonnie Washuk
Staff Writer

AUGUSTA – Gov. John Baldacci Tuesday said he “had no problem” with a decision by lawmakers to hold a public hearing on his proposal to expand the state’s laptop program to high-schoolers.

The more people who know about his plan the better, said Baldacci.

If passed, the proposal would have to remain part of the budget for the duration of the 4-year lease agreement, he said.

Sen. Neria Douglass, D-Auburn, co-chair of the Education Committee, said Tuesday she plans to offer an order on the Senate floor asking for a separate hearing on laptops. “It’s a big policy change. It needs discussion,” she said.

Baldacci seeks to spend a total of $45 million over four years to expand laptop computers to all high school grades. Under his plan, the cost would be picked up by the state and by local schools. The proposal is now contained in an administration budget amendment and would not normally get a separate public hearing.

Before approving his $8 million first-year request, lawmakers said they wanted input from the public. Under the plan, the $8 million would come from a school renovation fund approved by voters in referendum; some lawmakers expressed discomfort with the use of the funds for computer purposes.

Plus, once the state enters into the 4-lease agreement, taxpayers would be locked into the program.

Baldacci said Tuesday he understood that it’s hard for some people to think of spending money on laptops while the state is cutting health services to the needy in order to balance the budget. But, he said it’s critical for the state to invest in young people.

“The money’s there,” he said, referring to the $8 million. If lawmakers want a separate bill, “a separate public hearing would be fine,” Baldacci said.

Douglass said if her proposal calling for the laptop hearing is backed by the House and Senate, it could be held later this week or next week.

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