Kansas lawmakers will consider amending the state Constitution to prevent the courts from closing public schools. The state is embroiled in a legal fight over education funding that threatens to close schools after the end of this month.
Republican Senate Vice President Jeff King says he’s drafting a constitutional amendment that would clarify that neither the courts, lawmakers nor the governor have the power to shut down the education system.
“We need to be able to reassure parents, students, teachers and everyday Kansans that our schools will remain open no matter what,” says King.
This proposed amendment would not affect the current school funding dispute. To take effect, the amendment would require the approval of both legislative chambers and Kansas voters.
Lawmakers could discuss the proposal during committee meetings next week in advance of the special session starting later this month.