PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The House minority leader is criticizing Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo for not including any Republican state lawmakers on a working group reviewing Rhode Island’s education aid funding formula.
Minority Leader Brian Newberry, a North Smithfield Republican, says minority representation provides transparency. He says the group may be a sham.
Raimondo launched the group in October. She announced 29 members, including four Democratic state lawmakers.
Newberry says Raimondo’s administration ignored his request to broaden the group and was then stonewalled.
Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello’s spokesman says Mattiello agrees a Republican should be named, as they are to all legislative commissions, and deems it an oversight.
A Raimondo spokeswoman wouldn’t say whether Raimondo would add one.
Ashley Gingerella O’Shea says diverse leaders are involved and they welcome public participation at these open meetings.
