Governor proposes $257M for special education funding in Clark County for 2026 and 2027

The Nevada Assembly Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Committee on Finance convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss critical funding issues affecting special education services in the state. A significant proposal from Governor Lombardo recommends a budget of $257.6 million for fiscal year 2026 and $262.4 million for fiscal year 2027, which includes a 2% merit increase for special education personnel.

The discussions highlighted concerns regarding the distribution methodology for special education funding, particularly for the Clark County School District and charter schools. Currently, these institutions are set to receive a lower funding multiplier for special education pupils compared to the weight allocated for English learners. This disparity has raised alarms among committee members, prompting discussions on potential solutions to ensure equitable funding.

Three options were presented for consideration. Option A supports the governor's recommendation, maintaining the 2% merit increase while acknowledging that the effective multiplier for Clark County would still fall below the English learner weight. Option B proposes an additional $25.8 million in funding to elevate the effective multiplier to the desired level. Option C suggests eliminating the 2% roll-up for merit increases, reallocating those funds to support local educational agencies, but it would not fully address the funding gap.

The committee also addressed the 13% supplemental funding program for special education, which has historically provided $1.5 million annually. The governor's initial proposal aimed to eliminate this program, but subsequent amendments have restored it, allowing the funds to roll into the base budget. This change aims to assist local educational agencies in meeting their maintenance of effort requirements.

As the committee deliberated, members expressed caution about committing to additional funding in a tight fiscal environment. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing immediate educational needs with long-term fiscal sustainability. The committee is expected to continue exploring these options, with a focus on ensuring that all students, particularly those with disabilities, receive the support they need. The outcomes of these discussions will have lasting implications for Nevada's educational landscape as the state prepares for the upcoming biennium.