Wisconsin Senate Bill SB395

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/25/23
• Refer: 8/25/23
• Report Pass: 9/28/23
• Engrossed: 10/17/23
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Restrictions on the revenue ceiling for school districts. (FE)

Impact

The passage of SB395 would significantly impact how school districts manage their finances and determine funding for K-12 education. By lifting the restriction on the revenue ceiling linked to failed referendums, districts would be able to adjust their revenue limits based on current needs rather than being constrained by past referendum results. This change could incentivize districts to pursue new operational referendums without the fear of facing lasting financial penalties based on previous unsuccessful attempts.

Summary

Senate Bill 395 aims to amend current statutes regarding the revenue ceiling imposed on school districts in Wisconsin. Specifically, it seeks to repeal provisions that prevent school districts from having a revenue ceiling higher than the limit established in the year of an operating referendum failure. Under existing law, if a district's operating referendum fails, its revenue ceiling for the next three years is tethered to the limit from the year in which the referendum took place. SB395 proposes to eliminate this restriction, potentially allowing school districts more financial flexibility and authority over their budgeting and educational funding.

Contention

The bill's introduction has sparked discussions surrounding educational funding practices in Wisconsin. Proponents argue that it grants school districts much-needed financial autonomy and that tied revenue ceilings can unfairly penalize districts striving to improve their public education systems. Critics, however, may express concern over the potential for increased tax levies or budget shortfalls in communities that struggle to approve necessary referendums, suggesting that the lack of limits could lead to irresponsible financial management in some districts. Overall, the debate emphasizes broader issues related to education funding equity and systemic challenges faced by local educational entities.