By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO. – The sponsor of a plan to rewrite Missouri's method of funding public schools says the matter isn't dead.
Senate Majority Leader Charlie Shields said Thursday it's important to pass something this year or the courts could dictate what happens. This morning a House panel rejected a revised bill, with opposition from Democrats and some suburban Republicans.
Committee chairman Brian Baker said he'll try to persuade panel members to reconsider the issue, or attempt to take the bill to the House floor without committee approval.
School districts have sued the state alleging its current school funding formula is unconstitutional.
Governor Matt Blunt's office reiterated that Blunt wants a new school formula passed this year and said he is willing to call a special session if necessary.