The Senate's upper hand in the upcoming budget negotiations could wind up being a good thing for education.
The House and Governor Steve Beshear can be skeptical about the Senate plan to raise revenue by forcing the Lottery to tighten up its operations, but they don't dare go against the effort. At the same time, the Senate can rail against the tax increases the House and Governor want without fear of any loss.
And Governor Beshear doesn't really have much to offer in return for his one priority, casino gambling. He has really already played all his cards.
So it comes down to what the Senate wants to ask for in exchange for approving the budget. The House may be asked to decide between the teachers union and the budget. It's a great time to do it and Kentucky families stand to benefit the most in the bargain.
