| 2/13/2013 |
Pearson bill strategically accelerates school funding formula, provides property tax relief
STATE HOUSE – Sen. Ryan Pearson (D – Dist. 19, Cumberland, Lincoln) has introduced legislation that will make major investments in education while offering opportunities for critical property tax relief to communities.
The bill (2013-S 0188), which amends "The Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act," would immediately fund 100 percent of the state education aid to communities due under the state formula. During the 2010 session, the General Assembly enacted a funding formula highlighting the inequities in funding across Rhode Island and took a phased approach to bring equity to districts during a seven-year period.
"I applaud the legislature for taking such bold action in 2010, but I know the students and taxpayers in my district cannot wait the full seven years for improved achievement in our schools or property tax relief,” Senator Pearson said. “Passage of this legislation is not only critical for student success and property taxpayers, but it’s also important for our economy. A well-educated workforce and competitive tax structure are continually cited as major factors in improving Rhode Island's business climate as well."
The legislation as introduced would provide millions in immediate aid statewide, helping to control property taxes as the other major source of revenue for education. Additionally, due to the inequity of state funding to education for many years prior to the passage of the formula, many communities were forced to levy even higher property taxes to fund their schools. For these communities, the legislation offers a one-time adjustment to local support so communities can use these funds as needed to better control or lower property taxes.
Highlighting the impact to his district in Cumberland and Lincoln, Senator Pearson said: "This legislation will provide approximately $3.5 million to Cumberland in the next budget year above its prior year appropriation. While this legislation finally provides equity to Cumberland students in regard to state funding, this should also spark a conversation locally between the Town Council and School Committee on the appropriate level of support. Cumberland is a very efficient district, and I am confident it will continue to provide great outcomes for a lower cost. However, we must put the funding differences in perspective: to fund Cumberland at the state average – or approximately what Lincoln spends – an additional $18 million would be needed. This is a huge gap, so I encourage local leadership to work toward truly understanding cost drivers and ensure Cumberland students – like other students across the state – are given opportunities to succeed."
Cumberland currently spends the lowest per pupil amount in the state. Calling Cumberland’s school funding situation "critical," Senator Pearson said his legislation directs all $3.5 million of state aid to education.
His proposal would also provide Lincoln with the remaining $4 million that was supposed to be phased in during the remaining years of the formula. He noted Lincoln has historically funded education well despite state funding shortages. Due to this, $3.3 million of the $4 million would be available to the Lincoln Town Council for investing further in education or offering tax relief to residents.
"What is most important to note is that this legislation is not a special bill for Cumberland or Lincoln,” he said. ”It is not an urban versus suburban proposal. It is critical legislation to provide equity to students and taxpayers statewide. It is not an accident that districts shortchanged for years by the state are the same districts struggling to offer educational programming or are even in fiscal distress. We must act to finally provide equity this year."
Senators Roger A. Picard (D – Dist. 20, Cumberland, Lincoln), James E. Doyle II (D – Dist. 8, Pawtucket), William J. Conley Jr. (D – Dist. 18, East Providence, Pawtucket) and Gayle L. Goldin (D – Dist. 3, Providence) cosponsor the bill, which has been referred to the Senate Committee on Finance. Rep. Mia Ackerman (D – Dist. 45, Cumberland, Lincoln) is set to introduce the companion bill in the House.
For more information, contact:
Brenna McCabe, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-2457 |
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