HB 2078, which will alter the state funding formula for public education, was fast-tracked in the Senate, passed and signed by the governor today. Following is Pres. Alicia Priest’s response to the bill’s passage:
“The quick passage of HB 2078 and Gov. Stitt’s subsequent signing of the bill is disappointing.
“It is disappointing because no school district — rural, urban, or suburban — requested nor advocated for this bill. The changes caused by the passage of this bill will especially hurt our urban and rural schools.
“During the debate, lawmakers who spoke in support of the bill talked about funding following the child. We know that it already does. That’s what our funding formula was set up to do and has done for years.
“Another debate point we heard was that this change will increase per pupil funding. That is inaccurate. This bill only shuffles money — and does not give students an extra penny. Our children deserve better.
“Even with bipartisan opposition, the Senate passed the bill 27-19. We thank those who stood with the majority of Oklahoma taxpayers who say they want well-funded schools.”
