SF0073 revises Wyoming’s charter school funding formula. The bill adds a new funding component that requires school districts to allocate a proportional share of certain district central office costs to charter schools, based on the charter school’s average daily membership relative to the total membership of its sponsoring district. It also clarifies that charter schools continue to receive the foundation program amount, subject to existing deductions and adjustments, while adding the new proportional allocation tied to district-level funding generated under the foundation program and specified attachment amounts.
In practical terms, the bill shifts how some public education dollars are distributed by recognizing that charter schools should receive a share of central office expenses that support districtwide operations. It amends W.S. 21-3-314(c) governing charter school funding and takes effect July 1, 2025. The change affects school districts and charter schools by altering the calculation of charter school aid and potentially increasing the amount transferred to charter schools from district-generated funding streams.
Impact
The bill amends Wyoming statute W.S. 21-3-314(c) to add a new proportional funding allocation for charter schools and to refine the existing charter school entitlement formula. It directly affects the state’s school finance system by requiring school district central office nonpersonnel expenses and personnel-related amounts, as specified in the funding formula, to be shared with charter schools according to enrollment share. This changes the distribution of foundation program funds and related district-generated amounts between school districts and charter schools, with implementation beginning July 1, 2025.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been generally well received in both chambers. It advanced unanimously or near-unanimously through committee votes and passed the Senate and House with strong majorities, indicating broad legislative support for the charter school funding adjustments. The absence of committee transcript material limits insight into detailed debate, but the voting history suggests the proposal was viewed favorably overall.
Contention
The main likely point of contention is the fiscal and policy impact on school districts, which may be required to redirect a portion of central office funding to charter schools. Supporters likely view the bill as a fairness measure that better aligns funding with student enrollment and the services charter schools rely on, while critics may worry it reduces district flexibility or diverts resources from district-wide administration. The recorded floor votes show some opposition in each chamber, but not enough to prevent passage, suggesting limited but present disagreement over how charter schools should be funded relative to traditional districts.