March 29, 2024

The facts about education funding

The legislature passed, after months of negotiations, a one-time payment of $55.7 million meant to help schools fund many one-time expenses in their district related to classroom instruction. I supported the funding and I voted for it. I’m disappointed the governor chose not to send the funding on to school districts.

As for funding for next year, I hope to be able to vote for adequate funding for my school districts. It is never my intent to provide less than needed. We have to fund the state budget within the confines of sound budgeting principles.

I will review the revenue estimates that are published in December and work with my caucus to ensure we provide a sustainable amount of funding for schools while ensuring the budget is balanced. Just as this year, it is my hope that school funding is the first issue we tackle next January when the legislature convenes.

One danger we face is that revenues are considerably below estimates at this point. We built next year’s budget based on estimates that revenue would grow by $345 million this year. After the first month, revenues have grown by just $1.1 million.

At this rate, the ending balance we had at the end of the last legislative session, which has been used as proof that we have extra money lying around, will be gone.

To call a special session there are two options: 1) Two-thirds of the members of both bodies must submit a letter to the respective chief clerks requesting a special session. 2) The governor calls for a special session.

The Senate Republican leadership has said unequivocally and publicly that they are not calling for a special session. Option 1 is then out. Even if option 2 is exercised, there aren’t enough votes to overturn the governor’s veto.

I spoke with the leaders in my caucus at the time the veto came forth. I explored our options and informed them of my concerns. The point remains that I voted for and supported the $55.7 million.

As always, I encourage you to share with me your concerns by reaching out personally through email or phone so that you can truly learn the facts. Thank you for the continued privilege of serving House District 27.