(KNZA)--A local lawmaker is speaking out in support of this week's Senate passage of Kansas Governor Sam Brownback's plan to overhaul public school funding.
Brownback's fellow Republican, Senator Dennis Pyle, of rural Hiawatha, says naysayers of the $4.1 billion plan should avoid apprehension until they fully understand what the measure means. “The bill is 100 pages in length, and I encourage all questioning its impact to read the bill. While there is understandably a lot of fear surrounding this proposal, it does allow districts more local control by giving districts expanded fund flexibility. Also, the funding is stabilized for two years, allocating $300 million in new funding to schools though FY 17. The act does bring more transparency to the funding of our schools which is appropriate this took place during Sunshine Week.”
Pyle, who serves on the Senate Education Committee, said the approach taken by the overhaul led to his support of the measure. “The State of Kansas, supported by hard working taxpayers, is taking the necessary action to bring about more local control and a greater understanding and comprehension of how our schools are funded. I supported this measure in large part because of these components. Serving on the Senate Education Committee and listening to concerns surrounding the details and complications of the current formula this session and the past two sessions revealed it is time for a more transparent and legally sustainable approach.”
The Senate Monday voted 25 to 14 to approve the measure.
However, it could be blocked by a district court order issued Friday in regards to a pending case regarding whether the state is funding schools at constitutionally adequate levels under the current school funding formula.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
LATEST STORIES
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Tuition increase by KU, others in state
KS grad requirements updated after two decades.
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Potts first to file for Sheriff's seat in Atchison Co
Senator Slama won't endorse candidate in legislative race
Local author brings "Broken and Chained" to Falls City Saturday