Please contact your Senator and Advocate for Public School Finance. If you need a script for a call or email. Please reach out to Dr. Mayfield at cmayfield@strasburg.k12.mo.us
Property Tax Debate
SJR 111 (constitutional amendment on property taxes) was debated but not passed due to opposition.
It would have limited school district levy flexibility by applying Hancock Amendment restrictions and requiring rollbacks tied to property value increases.
The issue is still active, with SB 1410 likely becoming the main bill moving forward.
School leaders are encouraged to contact senators, as outcomes could significantly impact local school funding.
State Budget Concerns (FY 2027)
The Senate is now working on the state budget, with major implications for education funding.
Two major concerns in the House version of HB 2002:
Overestimated revenues (~$139M) from lottery, gaming, and state funds could lead to a $308M shortfall in the Foundation Formula.
Total potential impact (including transportation): $478.3M loss for schools.
$190M in unused Prop C funds is not being distributed but could be used to support schools.
Senate has an opportunity to fix these issues during markup.
Budget must be finalized by May 8.
Please contact your local Senator asking them to appropriate these funds for Public Education.
Income Tax Proposal (HJR 173)
Proposal to phase out Missouri’s income tax is advancing.
Timeline to replace revenue via sales tax expansion extended from 3 to 5 years.
Income tax cuts would pause in 2032 unless replacement revenue is secured.
Raises concerns because income tax is the main source of state funding, including for education.
Overall Takeaway
The final weeks of the legislative session will heavily impact:
School funding stability
Local tax authority
State revenue structure
Active advocacy with legislators is strongly encouraged right now.