The adjustment was enacted in 2010 to help the state close its budget deficit. Under the policy, part of the funding shortfall is divided among all school districts using a formula, and each district’s state aid is cut accordingly.
According to N.Y, State United Teachers, the teachers’ union, schools in the state have collectively lost billions of dollars to the adjustment.
The state Senate passed a bill Monday, Jan. 11, that would abolish the GEA, according to media reports.
The legislation was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan, according to a report on thelcn.com. It now goes to the state Assembly.
Carlucci (D-Rockland/Westchester) said ending the GEA was one of his top priorities this year.
The state’s financial outlook has improved, he added, and continuing the GEA “will only hurt our school districts moving forward.”
The Senate vote to end it will “work to restore necessary funding to our state’s schools and provide our students with the academic tools they need to succeed.” Carlucci said.
He urged his colleagues in the Assembly to support the legislation.
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