Alaska lawmakers will vote next week on House Bill 69 to increase the state’s per-student public school funding. The Alaska school funding bill proposes raising the base student allocation (BSA) by $1,000 next year with an additional $800 increase over two years.
House Speaker Bryce Edgmon and House Rules Chair Louise Stutes confirmed that amendments will be added to the House Rules Committee on Wednesday. After these revisions, the bill will advance to a vote before the full House, where further changes could be proposed.
Governor Mike Dunleavy opposes the bill’s current version, arguing that it lacks necessary education policy reforms and places financial strain on the state. His administration has held closed-door talks with legislators, seeking to include measures like charter school expansion and greater support for correspondence programs.
Some Republican lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Mia Costello, have voiced concerns about being left out of negotiations over the bill’s direction. Costello stated that the House floor will allow all members to propose amendments before the final vote.
Supporters of HB 69 argue that Alaska has failed to adjust education funding for inflation, leaving schools struggling to meet students’ needs. Critics counter that the proposed funding boost lacks accountability measures and does not guarantee improved school performance.
Status acknowledged that the final funding amount remains uncertain, and negotiations are likely to continue as the bill moves to the Senate. She emphasized that while some lawmakers believe the $1,000 increase is insufficient, it represents the best compromise available at this stage.
The Alaska school funding bill highlights an ongoing debate over balancing financial feasibility with the need for a well-funded public education system. Lawmakers will continue discussions as the bill advances, and potential revisions will shape its outcome.
This news article was originally published by Alaska Beacon.
