Lycoming News

Republicans who serve on the Basic Education Funding Commission have unveiled their alternative report (Report #1), prioritizing urgent needs within public education, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and avoiding tax hikes. The report aims to provide greater budget stability for school districts and ensure that students receive at least the same amount of funding as the previous year.

Report #1 received mixed support, with 6 favorable votes, 6 negative votes, and 3 abstentions. In contrast, a second report calling for over $7 billion in new education spending received 8 favorable votes and 7 negative votes.

Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill, co-chair of the commission, expressed her support for Report #1, stating, "Our report is a bold and realistic approach for the legislature and governor to address opportunities within our basic education funding system." Phillips-Hill emphasized that the recommendations in the report were based on extensive testimony and public comments, with the goal of leaving basic education in a better place.

The report recommends reforms to the state's Basic Education Funding Formula to provide greater stability and predictability for school funding. It also advocates for no reduction in funding for any of the state's 500 public school districts based on historic allocations.

Sen. David G. Argall, chairman of the Senate Education Committee, highlighted the need to address the state's school property tax system, stating, "To me, that is the most important piece of the education funding puzzle." The report suggests averaging poverty metrics over a three-year span to avoid drastic budgetary impacts based on small population changes in school districts.

The Republicans' report does not specify spending amounts, as they believe that decisions regarding funding levels should be left to the annual appropriations process. The report emphasizes the importance of accountability in government-run education, creating opportunities for all students, and empowering parents in the education of their children.

The report also addresses school infrastructure challenges, particularly maintenance programs. It recommends assisting students in failing schools with options to pursue educational achievement and opportunities.

Now that the report has been released, it is up to the General Assembly and the governor to review the recommendations and begin legislative and budgetary deliberations. The Republicans' report serves as a roadmap for addressing the urgent needs within public education while maintaining fiscal responsibility and avoiding tax hikes.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.senatorargall.com/2024/01/11/republicans-unite-behind-alternative-basic-education-funding-commission-report/