Bill > SJ0006

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to change how public school facilities are funded and constructed in Wyoming. The amendment would shift primary responsibility for school facility construction to local school districts, requiring them to fund capital projects through bonds or other means, while establishing a state-level equalization mechanism. Specifically, the resolution mandates that voter-approved capital expenditures will be final, and the state will help equalize the financial burden by ensuring that a school district's mill levy (property tax rate) does not exceed what would be raised if the district had an average state valuation per person. The state may provide additional funding through appropriations or a statewide mill levy to support this equalization, and the legislature is authorized to create a system for determining which capital facilities are necessary and to appropriate funds to relieve hardship for school districts. This proposed change stems from a 2001 Wyoming Supreme Court decision that previously made school facility provision a state responsibility, and aims to return more local control while maintaining state support for school construction financing.

Education

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/SJ0006