Lawmakers are hoping to revise the formula and pass it this session so that it can be phased in over a period of years rather than having the courts decide how funding should be distributed, which could happen if the Legislature does not complete work on a new formula this year. Several schools have brought suit against the state regarding the current formula, which they claim is not equitable and is inadequately funded.
Lawmakers from both parties are acknowledging that any new formula is going to require additional dollars. Gov. Blunt has recommended an additional $178 million in funds this year, and Shields has indicated the new formula could cost much more than that in the end. “Whatever it ends up being, it will be phased in over a period of years,” Shields said.
