Gov. Tom Corbett recently unveiled his plan for the privatization of liquor and wine sales, with the revenue from the auction of liquor licenses to be used for a proposed a new “Passport for Learning” block grant that would provide $1 billion to public schools over the next four years. The grant will focus on four priority areas: school safety, enhanced early education programs, individualized learning and science, technology, engineering and mathematics courses and programs.

The announcement was made at a news conference in Pittsburgh; details are still forthcoming.Education Secretary Ronald Tomalis was with the governor and several members of the House of Representatives supporting the plan. The governor intends to have a follow-up news conference next week to announce the sponsors of the legislation that is expected to be introduced in the House.

Source: PSBA Legislative Report, Jan. 31, 2013.