House, Senate consider state budget: cuts likely but school funding level

School funding likely flat, other budgets cut

“From what I’ve heard so far, there’s not going to be any increase in (K-12) funding,” said House Education Chairman John Moore, R-Brandon. “I don’t think anybody’s found a $40 million or $50 million pot of money out there. I think it’s going to be a rough ride even getting out of this year.”

The Senate had adopted a proposed budget that increased K-21 spending by $40 million. But that proposal appeared to ignore some large deficits — such as about $50 million for Medicaid — and other mandates. House leaders have warned a more austere final budget for the next fiscal year is likely, with “flat” funding for education and cuts to most other budgets.

Hattiesburg American
4/14/16