The End is Near?

The headline of this Blog entry is not referring to prophecy; but rather, the Kansas legislative session!

I believe that the Kansas Legislature is close to finishing its session in Topeka.  To date, both the House and Senate have passed a budget bill that does not make additional cuts to K-12 Education.  The Senate has also passed a revenue bill that raises the state sales tax by 1% for the next three years.  The House has not passed a revenue bill.  I hear that the House is held up by 12 Johnson County Representatives who won't vote for the revenue bill unless House Sub for SB74 is passed.  House Sub for SB74 is refereed to as the "Johnson County Candy Bill". This bill would flow the KPERS contribution of each district through the General Fund.  By doing so it would artificially increase the General Fund which would then increase each school district's LOB authority.  Local school boards would have the option to increase the LOB authority and pay for it by local property taxes with no state aid.  This bill is very dis-equalizing.  If a wealthy local school district, like those in Johnson County, choose to use this option, they would see very small increases in property taxes. While others, like Buhler would see much greater increases.  (Also, this authority is only good for one year, then it is subject to voters approval).

I certainly hope that this ploy does not derail the final revenue bill which was crafted by Moderate Republicans and Democrats.  I'll keep you posted.

David