House GOP Signals Possible Fight Over Education Funding

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Gov. Mark Dayton's proposed funding package for children and education could see some pushback from House Republicans this year.

They signaled as much in a joint House hearing on finance for education and health and human services Wednesday. Republicans questioned state officials over whether the nearly $420 million in extra spending Dayton proposes will accomplish what he wants.

One of Dayton's signature proposals is a plan to offer all-day preschool to more than 30,000 kids. House Education Finance Committee Chairwoman Jenifer Loon says well-off families could take advantage of it. She suggested directing that program and others to children who need it most.

House Republicans will eventually unveil their own education plan, with budget negotiations unfolding over the coming months.