Hunter’s school funding reform draws notice

Ross Hunter has rolled out his sweeping proposal to reform the school levy equalization program in a couple of settings, and it’s beginning to attract media attention. 

He went public with it Nov. 19 in a speech to the Washington State School Directors’ Association, and the Ways and Means Committee he chairs held a work session on the concept Dec. 7. 

Hunter’s plan would provide budgetary relief for the state without hurting school districts, and ideally tap future economic growth more effectively. So far, he has not introduced a bill incorporating the proposal.

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Lawmakers discussing levy equalization in evening work session

Challenges to enhance educational opportunities for property-poor districts continue as lawmakers move forward in one of the most fiscally challenging times in our state’s history.

Tonight, members of the House Education Appropriations and Oversight Committee will discuss levies and levy equalization during this evening’s work session at 6 p.m. in House Hearing Room A in the John L. O’Brien Building on the Capitol Campus in Olympia.

The work session schedule for tonight includes the following:
1. Overview of levy and levy equalization.
2. Overview of Other States School Funding Sources.
3. Levies and Levy Equalization Differences in School Districts.
4. Update on the Local Levy Workgroup.
5. Timber Excise Tax and Timber Revenues.
6. Public comment.