Court Hears School Funding Lawsuit

Arguments have been heard in a Jefferson City Circuit Court regarding a lawsuit filed against Governor Bob Holden by several school districts claiming he did not have the constitutional authority to withhold money that had previously been allocated to public schools. Their attorney, Mike Delaney, understands there are budget problems which must be addressed, but says school money cannot be cut. Delaney says any cuts that must be made tobalance the budget must come from other departments or agencies. But, Attorney Paul Wilson, representing the State, says the Governor is not allowed to spend money that isn’t available. Both sides expect the case to end up in the State Supreme Court after the judge issues his ruling. That ruling could come as early as next week. Fourteen school districts – most from the Kansas City area – are now part of the lawsuit.