Iowa, Colorado, Texas Advance School Funding Bills

Iowa lawmakers have finalized a 2% increase in K-12 school funding, raising per-pupil funding to nearly $8,000. The funding package, which awaits the governor's signature, includes additional allocations for transportation and operational sharing, reflecting a compromise among House Republicans and the governor. Although some lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with the low increase, they acknowledged the additional funding for rural schools as a positive outcome. Meanwhile, Colorado's House Education Committee has passed a school funding compromise aimed at maintaining stability amid budget constraints, with support from various district leaders. The Colorado bill seeks to address concerns over a proposal that could reduce funding for districts with declining enrollment. Both states highlight ongoing challenges in adequately funding educational infrastructures amidst varying local and state pressures.