The Georgia Chamber today expressed its support for Governor Nathan Deal’s proposal to preserve HOPE scholarship and pre-kindergarten funding for Georgia students.

“There are few things more important to Georgia’s economic future than qualified workers,” said Doug Carter, 2011 Chair of the Georgia Chamber Board of Directors.  “Governor Deal’s proposal will both keep the best and brightest in our state and continue to provide young minds with a great start to their education.”

The Georgia Chamber has played a strong role in education policy throughout its history, working with elected leaders to develop programs that ensure the availability of a qualified workforce.  The continuation of the HOPE and pre-K programs has been identified as one of the organization’s 2011 policy priorities.

“Governor Deal has been willing to make some tough decisions that we believe will set this program on a track toward sustainability, and we look forward to supporting this proposal as it works its way through the legislative process,” concluded Carter.