Rural Lobbyist: Debate for Teacher Pay Rages on.

February 12, 2016 – By #South Dakota Farmer Union

 The debate rages on concerning teacher pay in South Dakota. The House Committee on Appropriations heard testimony on Monday for House Bill 1182. If passed, HB 1182 would increase state sales and use taxes by percent for the purpose of increasing teacher pay in South Dakota.

It was noted in proponent testimony that the percent increase would generate roughly $107 million. However, only $75 million would be dedicated to education funding. The remainder would be used for property tax relief. The $75 million used for education funding would attempt to bring the average teacher salary in South Dakota up from $40,000 to $48,500.

An amendment was proposed to use the entirety of the $107 million for education funding. Under the amendment average teacher salary could be expected to reach over $50,000, taking South Dakota out of last place in the region and into the middle of the pack.

The committee overwhelmingly rejected the proposed amendment. While legislators claimed that they needed to be bold in teacher funding, getting out of last place with an aggressive funding plan was apparently too bold. It should be noted that the overall property tax relief would only save the landowner $50 per year on a property valued at $100,000.

The bill ultimately passed unanimously out of committee and was scheduled for floor action on Wednesday. The stage was set as educators from across South Dakota waited anxiously in the gallery for the debate to begin. However, members of the House delayed debate on the bill using rule 5-17. Many have spoken out about the questionable tactics used these Representatives. As for now, the bill awaits decision on the House floor and should, if not delayed, see action sometime next week.

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Last Modified: 02/12/2016 5:55:53 pm MST