Volz criticizes, votes against short-term education funding fix

January 24, 2017

Lawmakers in Olympia voted Monday to cancel a cut in local property taxes that had been planned to take effect next January. Proponents argue the one-year extension is needed to allow schools to keep schools solvent. But Republicans in the House say it punts the real issue – a long-term solution to fully fund education.  John Sattgast reports from Olympia.

SATTGAST: A four percent increase in the levy base of local property taxes for schools is set to expire next January.

Majority Democrats passed a bill Monday that would provide a one-year extension, which drew sharp criticism from House Republicans.

In his first speech on the House floor, newly-elected freshman Mike Volz of Spokane said lawmakers should be funding education long term – not punting the issue for another year.

VOLZ: “Another temporary fix, another broken promise on solving McCleary I don't think is appropriate at this time too soon in the session. I think that we need to roll up our sleeves and do the work of the people, and get a long-term solution for McCleary resolved this session.”

SATTGAST: Republicans say they hope this doesn't give lawmakers an excuse to kick the can down the road one more year on permanent education funding. The measure passed 62-35.

John Sattgast, Olympia