Governor Laura Kelly has signed the bill to increase public school funding. The measure was approved by the legislature this week.

Speaking at a legislative coffee in Junction City, Saturday, State Senator Jeff Longbine noted with growth the state should be in good shape, but a dip in the economy in the future could be a concern.. The measure provides an additional $92 million in funding. “For the first time ever we are in agreement between the executive branch, the legislative branch and the state school board on what the proper amount should be. We are very confident the court will look favorably on this.”

Longbine pointed to budget concerns for the future. “Schools are a component of that because of the percentage of the state general fund. When you look at our years in the budget profiles they run negative. Hopefully, the economy will stay strong, hopefully our tax revenues will continue to increase. If not we’ll hve to make some budgetary changes, but that’s nothing new for the legislature.” Longbine added adjustments can be made.

The legislation is an attempt to satisfy a Kansas Supreme Court mandate for increased school funding.