Emler: School finance, redistricting are priorities
By MATT NEWHOUSE
Contributing writer
What does 35th District Sen. Jay Emler see in the 2002 legislative session?
"It isn't going to be pretty," he said. "I met with the Governor recently, and I have to tell you, he looked pretty down."
With state income levels down, Emler said most agencies will be lucky if their budgets don't decrease.
"There isn't enough to go around and it will be tough for some people to accept that," he said. "There's no doubt in my mind that as the economy softens, we'll have more people who need our social services, but the funds just aren't going to be there."
School finance in particular is a contentious issue. Emler said he wants state education officials and local school districts to work together to streamline areas such as paperwork.
"There's still so much data-gathering that isn't used effectively," Emler said. "If we're not going to use it, let's get rid of it."
Further, a legislative study indicated many districts have an overly-large administrative budget.
"Rightly or wrongly, I guarantee you that post-audit report will be flown like a flag," Emler said.
2002 elections
Emler fears that the 2002 elections will loom over this legislative session.
"It's going to have a lot to do with how well anything gets through," he said. "I'm concerned that it will be used to thwart any reasonable effort to get anything done."
For example, Rep. Kent Glasscock is Speaker of the House but also running mate to Carla Stovall. Political opponents may try to stymie Glasscock's goals to embarrass Stovall, Emler said.
"We really should focus just on the issues, and what's right for this state and the nation, but I think people will get caught up in the politics," he said.
Gaming issues are certain to arise because of budget constraints. While Emler isn't a gambling devotee, he said many constituents have businesses related to gaming.
"Dickinson County tells me they could lose $10 million a year in greyhound operations," Emler said. "Can any rural county afford to have a $10 million business dry up and blow away?"
Emler said he will again support proposals to allow voters in counties with existing racetracks to vote on whether slots should be allowed at those facilities.
"Let the people who live there decide, not us in our white towers in Topeka," he said.
If budget problems aren't enough, Emler also has to concentrate on how various redistricting proposals affect the 35th.
Redistricting, done after each 10-year census, is required so elected officials represent roughly the same number of people. Due to population changes, urban areas are expected to gain more districts.
Emler said most plans he's seen put all or part of Marion and Dickinson counties in other districts.
"I've flat-out said that it's a no vote," he said. "I have a lot of good people in those counties and I don't want them cut off."
Emler noted that his district is off by less than two percent so he is concentrating on a plan that simply enlarges his district slightly.
Security issues
Security at the Capitol has been increased due to the Sept. 11 attacks. Only the east door is open to the public and everyone entering must pass through security checkpoints.
"Allow more time if you come to Topeka," Emler said.
Fewer parking spaces will be available nearer the building as well. Emler said he's been warned to "buy a good pair of overshoes" because even most legislators will be parking far from the building.
Despite the solemn reports about state government, Emler is looking forward to the session.
"I'm not unhappy to be there," Emler said. "There are tough issues, but I can handle tough issues."
