Arizona 2022 Regular Session

Arizona Senate Bill SB1213

Caption

School funding; inflation adjustment.

Impact

The modifications brought by SB1213 are expected to bolster the financial stability of school districts, especially those with growing student populations. By safeguarding a minimum growth rate in additional assistance, the bill ensures that districts can better allocate resources toward educational needs, thereby addressing potential shortfalls that may arise from stagnant funding levels. This could particularly benefit public school districts that face challenges in keeping pace with the costs due to inflation. Additionally, the bill clarifies the financial responsibilities of charter schools, detailing how state aid is apportioned.

Summary

SB1213 proposes amendments to Arizona Revised Statutes sections 15-185 and 15-961, focusing on school financing, particularly for charter schools and district additional assistance. Key provisions include a mandated increase in district additional assistance by at least two percent, or according to the GDP price deflator, whichever is less, through fiscal year 2023-2024 and beyond. This introduces a formulaic approach to adjusting funding, intending to keep pace with inflation, ultimately aiming to enhance educational resources available to schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB1213 may arise from differing perspectives on funding equity between traditional public and charter schools. While proponents argue that the bill promotes more rigorous financial standards and accountability for charter schools, critics may highlight concerns regarding the sufficiency of funds allocated to adequately support diverse student needs across various educational environments. The bill could lead to debates on whether increasing financial aid adequately addresses educational disparities, particularly in underserved districts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ SCR1029

Trust land; distribution; inflation adjustments

AZ SB1075

K-12; school funding; revisions

AZ HCR2044

Trust land; distribution; inflation adjustments.

AZ SB1456

CTEs; in-demand programs; funding

AZ HB2863

School facilities; replacement; renovation; funding

AZ SB1744

K-12 education; 2024-2025.

AZ HB2906

K-12 education; 2024-2025

AZ HB2170

Full-day kindergarten students; ADM

AZ SB1654

Schools; finance; instruction; accountability; revisions

AZ SB1496

Property tax exemptions; inflation adjustment

Similar Bills

AZ HB2147

School funding; inflation adjustment

AZ HB2073

School funding; inflation adjustment

AZ SB1530

K-12 education; 2023-2024.

AZ HB2577

K-12 education; 2023-2024

AZ HB2850

2022-2023 budget; K-12 education

AZ HB2956

K-12 education; 2025-2026

AZ SB1075

K-12; school funding; revisions

AZ HB2124

School districts; tuition; expenditures