The proposed bill would update current statutes related to school district budget override and bond election ballots by introducing new requirements for transparency. Specifically, it would mandate that ballots for budget override continuation elections funded by a secondary property tax levy include a statement detailing the estimated average secondary property tax reduction if the override is not authorized, along with the effective date of this reduction. This requirement would also extend to school districts that previously operated under a small school adjustment. Similarly, for bond elections funded by a secondary property tax levy, the ballot must state the estimated average tax reduction and its effective date.

Additionally, the bill would make technical and conforming changes to ensure consistency with these new requirements, including updates to the submission process for arguments for and against proposed budget increases. It would require sworn statements from those submitting arguments, allow the county school superintendent to review and correct inaccuracies, and establish a deadline for argument submissions. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which school districts can adopt budgets exceeding general limits without an election and specifies maximum amounts allowed, ultimately aiming to enhance transparency and clarity in school finance elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-481, 15-491, 15-949, 16-204, 15-905, 42-12003, 42-12001, 15-422, 15-423, 15-424, 15-426, 15-403, 15-947, 15-482, 15-971, 15-447, 15-342, 15-493, 15-401, 15-402
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-481, 15-491, 15-949, 16-204, 15-905, 42-12003, 42-12001, 15-422, 15-423, 15-424, 15-426, 15-403, 15-947, 15-482, 15-971, 15-447, 15-342, 15-493, 15-401, 15-402