Authorizes a sales tax for special educational services
Impact
The introduction of this bill could significantly impact how educational services are funded in metropolitan districts, potentially alleviating financial pressures that many schools face. By providing an avenue for districts to generate their own revenue, the bill could lead to improved funding for special educational initiatives. However, the bill also necessitates voter engagement, as the tax can only be imposed following approval in a general election, ensuring that local communities have a direct say in their educational funding.
Summary
Senate Bill 965, introduced by Senator Roberts, aims to authorize a sales tax specifically for funding special educational services within metropolitan school districts. The bill allows school boards to impose a sales tax not exceeding one-quarter of one percent on all retail sales within their districts, which could provide a new revenue stream for educational services. This new tax would be in addition to existing sales taxes, and it is crucial that the school board seeks voter approval before implementing the tax.