Americans for Prosperity Supports Legislation to Help Solve Education Funding Problem

HB1273 would direct an additional $59 million for students and teachers without raising taxes

SIOUX FALLS – Last Friday the House Education Committee of the South Dakota Legislature held hearings regarding HB 1273 which would increase funding for in the classroom expenditures in South Dakota schools that will directly impact students and teachers.  Action will be taken tomorrow in committee.  Americans for Prosperity (AFP) is pleased to help lead discussion on issue.

“During the Taxpayer Trust Tour AFP traveled the state to get taxpayer input into the legislative process.  The groundwork for HB 1273 was suggested by taxpayers,” said State Director of Americans for Prosperity Duane Sand.  “AFP is pleased to help advance the discussion of critical importance to taxpayers during the legislative session with grassroots support.  HB 1273 is a companion bill to any education funding bills that are passed.”

Currently school districts in South Dakota spend an average of 58.6 cents on classroom instruction expenditures.  HB 1273 would require that 65 cents of education expenditures be allocated for classroom instructional expenses such as teacher salaries, students, books, and general supplies.  The bill would inject an additional $59 million dollars into the classroom without raising taxes or force counties to op-out of local property taxes limits to fund education.” 

Americans for Prosperity South Dakota Director Duane Sand indicated “this bill is a compromise between the current lawsuit pending against the state for $110 million additional dollars and doing nothing to solve the education funding issue.  Schools should use the same best practices model that has made American businesses the most competitive in the world.”

During the committee hearing last Friday primary sponsor Rep. Hal Wick District 12 offered amendments to include libraries and librarians and allow an additional year for implementation.

Sand also said, “the intent of the bill is to find efficiencies in school district operations and direct that savings into the classroom.  HB 1273 is an issue that unites teachers, students, parents, and taxpayers.  This bill maintains local control over school districts, but demands statewide accountability.  HB 1273 will help improve students’ education while simultaneously protecting taxpayers.”

Action will be taken on HB 1273 on Tuesday morning during the next meeting of the House Education Committee.