JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) - Senate Majority Leader John Coghill says if the votes on a proposed constitutional amendment on education appear “within reach,” floor debate will proceed.
SJR9 proposes a constitutional change that would allow for public money to be used for private or religious schools. Debate is scheduled for Wednesday.
Coghill says bill sponsors generally need a pretty good indication they have the required votes for a measure to reach the floor.
SJR9’s sponsor, Mike Dunleavy, wouldn’t say Friday whether he had the votes. Coghill said he thought the numbers were close. He said if “every support” crashes, the measure will probably be pulled.
Coghill, an SJR9 co-sponsor, said conversations get more intense once an issue reaches the floor.
Senate Minority Leader Hollis French said he didn’t believe the votes were there.
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