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Senate passes substitute for reading program that matches local levies with state funds
Summary
The Senate approved a first substitute to SB230 establishing a reading/achievement program funded by a mix of state appropriations and local school-district voted leeway; the substitute ties state matching to district participation and an equalization formula and passed on third reading 20-3.
Senators approved a negotiated first substitute for Senate Bill 230, a reading and early-literacy funding program, on Feb. 27, 2004.
Sponsor Senator Evans described the substitute as a compromise with the governor and leadership that pairs state funding with local school-district participation. She described a distribution formula that weights funding 50% on the weighted pupil unit and 50% on the percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price lunch; districts choosing to participate would raise local revenue through a voted board leeway and the state would match that local contribution under the substitute.
Floor discussion focused on the practical mechanics and equity of the formula. Senator Wadups explained the equalization rationale: wealthier districts that raise local funds would not claim the same state match as high-need districts. Multiple senators asked for district-level projections; Senator Evans described available district-by-district worksheets and offered to provide copies.
On roll call the first substitute passed (20 ayes, 3 nays, 6 absent) and was referred to the House for further consideration. Senators emphasized that district participation is voluntary and that state money would match local voted leeway approved by school boards and voters.
