Lawmaker proposes RS32540 to require school appropriations be spent only for their stated purpose

Representative Kyle Harris, R., introduced RS32540 on March 3, 2025, a short measure that would require funds the Legislature appropriates to public and public charter schools be used for the purpose stated in the appropriation language.

Harris told the committee the measure responds to bills this session where appropriations designated for specific purposes — for example, math and science — were later used for other items such as salary increases. "If we issue appropriate monies to public or public charter schools, the money has to be used for what it was intended for in its language when it was introduced," he said.

Committee members questioned administrative and auditing implications. Representative Church asked how current auditing works and who would enforce the restriction; Harris said he would gather information from auditors and LSO if the RS is introduced. Representative Nelson and Representative Mathias said they were sympathetic to the principle but worried about the practical accounting burden on districts, citing examples where community volunteer work or combined projects can make rigid earmarks difficult to administer.

Harris replied the proposal is not intended to require line-by-line accounting for every dollar and said the Legislative Services Office already audits school spending. "If we earmark money for maintenance, it goes to maintenance," he said, adding the bill would allow a broad definition (for example, maintenance can cover multiple maintenance activities).

Representative Hawkins moved to introduce RS32540. Hawkins and several members said they supported the concept after hearing that some earmarked funds had been diverted in past years. The committee approved introduction on a voice vote.

The RS was introduced for further consideration; lawmakers said they expect auditing mechanics and oversight details to be addressed at the formal hearing.