YANKTON, S.D. (KTIV) -
This year, South Dakota lawmakers passed sweeping education reform.
However, the controversial bill's fate will ultimately be left up to voters. Its critics have successfully put the issue on this November's ballot.
The education reform act creates a program for math and science bonuses and establishes a merit-based system for teachers.
While the legislation was narrowly passed by the Republican majority in both chambers of the legislature, both Democrats and Republicans running for office in District 18 say they won't be voting for it on November 6th.
"Those who voted for it went home and heard from parents and teachers, school officials, and I think they realize now that the public understands the real problem with education is education funding. This bill doesn't address that," said Rep. Bernie Hunhoff.
"There are many parts of it that I just don't think are workable. I don't think that the citizens are going to support it either. You know, South Dakota is a small enough state that we need to be working together, and I just think the law itself doesn't work that well," said Mike Stevens.
"I think there is a perception that this is a top-down bill, that came from the top, and everybody at the local level has to comply. I do believe that there can be a better plan. There are parts of this that are good. I do believe there can be a better plan. What has to happen is that all the players have to come to the table,"said Thomas Stotz.
"The whole session was spent on that bill trying to get it in a form that would be acceptable, but I there are just too many questions out there on the complexity, and that's I think why some of us chose not to support it. The concept is there, for performance, it's how do we get to the right piece for that metric," said Sen. Jean Hunhoff.
The candidates were in Yankton Tuesday night for a "meet the candidates" forum sponsored by the Lewis and Clark Homebuilders.
Voters will choose two people for the House, and incumbent Nick Moser is not seeking reelection.
Democratic Incumbent Brenie Hunhoff is facing a challenge from fellow Democrat Charlie Gross, who did not attend the forum.
Two Republicans, Mike Stevens and Thomas Stotz are vying for a seat as well.
State Senator Jean Hunhoff will go up against Democrat David Allen, who was also absent from Tuesday night's forum.
