DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Gov. Terry Branstad says he vetoed several appropriations approved by lawmakers because he opposes one-time spending for ongoing expenses. Branstad said Monday that he has long been clear about his concerns over such budgeting practices. Last week, he vetoed much of a one-time spending bill backed by the legislature, which included nearly $56 million for K-12 education.

Democrats and education leaders are criticizing the move, saying it will hurt schools. Branstad says he has made other investments in education. After Branstad’s actions the state will spend nearly $7.2 billion in ongoing general fund expenses in the current fiscal year. The legislature sought $135 million in one-time payments, but Branstad cut that to $56 million. That money comes from surplus fund dollars left at the end of the previous fiscal year.