HB 1811-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Directs the office of financial management to conduct a comprehensive study of the Washington education finance system, including examination of alternative teacher compensation models.

Provides that the study shall, at a minimum: (1) Compare Washington's common school funding system with those in other states that are beginning to link finance systems with education reform and expected student learning outcomes;

(2) Review the role of state and local funding and levy equalization policies in the Washington common school finance system, building upon the 2002 joint task force on local effort assistance report; and

(3) Design alternative common school finance systems for Washington.

Provides that a twenty-three member steering committee shall direct the office of financial management in the system review and the development of alternatives and recommendations.

Requires the office of financial management to report initial findings and recommendations of the committee to the legislature, including the education and fiscal committees of the house of representatives and the senate, by June 30, 2004. A final report shall be provided to the education and fiscal committees of the house of representatives and the senate by December 20, 2004.

Expires June 30, 2005.