From John Urkevich, Executive Director,
Cooperating School Districts of Greater St. Louis, Inc.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Professional Development Funds Removed from Senate Appropriations Committee Budget
Twenty million in professional development funds have been removed from the Senate Appropriations Committee approved budget. The budget bill now moves to the Senate floor for debate and approval. Loss of these funds would be a devastating blow to professional development programs throughout the state. Please urge your Senator to restore these professional development funds.
Property Tax Concerns
HS HCS HB 1321 and 1695 was passed by the House and is now being considered by the Senate. This grants a measure of property tax relief to seniors which CSD does not oppose. However, there was an amendment attached to it by Representative Davis which would force districts to adjust levies based upon the prior year levy, and would not allow districts to roll up to their voter approved levy at any time. This also does not allow for CPI growth or new construction. This amendment would have disastrous effects on public schools. Please contact your Senator and ask that they remove Representative Davis' amendments from HS HCS HB 1321 and 1695.
TABOR Proposal Moves to Senate
HS HCS HJR 70 is Missouri's version of the Colorado Law that later had to be repealed. Termed the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR), this legislation would severely limit revenue to all public services. The proposed growth factor would not keep pace with cost increases nor would allow funds for new programs. Please contact your Senator to discuss your concerns on HS HCS HJR 70.
Vouchers
As previously discussed, the Senate is likely to continue debate on SCS SB 993 & 770. We believe that there will also be efforts to amend the language onto other bills. Please continue to voice your concerns to your Senators on this bill or any bill that promotes vouchers to private schools.
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