One-way street on Pre-K plan

Gov. Tim Kaine has listened attentively to the concerns of Republican lawmakers about his plan to expand pre-kindergarten in Virginia, and he's made good-faith efforts to address each potential pitfall they've pointed out.

Rather than meet Kaine halfway now that the plan has taken final form, Republicans have moved the goal posts again. This time, it's almost out of reach.

First, GOP leaders objected to offering pre-kindergarten to every 4-year-old in the commonwealth. Too expensive, they said, adding that the focus should stay on low-income children who are most likely to have difficulty in elementary school.

Fair enough, Kaine replied. With state tax collections slowing, he retooled his plan to focus on children who qualify for free and reduced-price school lunches. The price tag dropped by more than half.

Next, Republicans declared the plan unworkable after a state watchdog agency reported that many cities and counties can't afford to serve all eligible children because the state shortchanges them.

Rather than get defensive, Kaine mulled the report over and came up with a workable solution that offers additional cash incentives for local governments to expand their pre-kindergarten programs.

City and county leaders are satisfied with the plan announced Monday. Not Republican legislators.

It's not that GOP leaders are conjuring up trivial objections. Their critiques have been on the mark, and have made the final plan stronger and more workable.

Their latest criticisms also deserve consideration. Kaine wants to dip into the state's rainy day fund to cover part of a revenue shortfall for the current budget year, an action some fiscal hawks say should only be taken during recessions.

Lawmakers also are worried about the amount of new debt Kaine is advocating.

The problem with Republicans' reaction to the governor's plan is more about attitude. They show no sign of willingness to meet Kaine in a spirit of mutual cooperation.

Too much weight is being given to political motivations. Republican leaders have no desire to see Kaine end his term with a victory dance as he accomplishes his top goal. "He's desperate for a legacy," said House Majority Whip Kirk Cox in a telling comment that reveals his party's intentions.

Political strategy should not interfere with state leaders' willingness to do the right thing for Virginia and its children.

Republicans should gather around the bargaining table and find a way to invest in needy children without breaking the bank. Gov. Kaine has already pulled up his chair.