Opening arguments have been heard in the lawsuit challenging Missouri’s school funding formula. Attorney Alex Bartlett, representing a coalition of 236 school districts, claims the current formula is not adequate and not equal. And, he says the General Assembly is required, under the Constitution, to ensure that all students are treated equally and adequately. Bartlett says the Legislature has a duty to see that all school districts – large and small – have necessary funding. Assistant Attorney General Jim McAdams, representing the state, argues this is not a constitutional matter. He insists the Legislature has the final say over such policy issues. With the end of the opening statements came the beginning in a long line of witnesses testifying in this case. Dozens of witnesses are scheduled to testify over the next six weeks.
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