Video: State Lawmakers Propose Alternative to MAEP Funding Measure

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JACKSON, Miss. (WCBI) – State lawmakers pass an alternative measure to a ballot initiative that would force the full funding of the Mississippi Adequate Education Program.

The House Constitution Committee made the move this afternoon. It simply says: “The Legislature shall, by general law, provide for the establishment, maintenance and support of an effective system of free public schools.”

The Better Schools, Better Jobs group pushing for full funding calls it an expected move, designed to confuse voters. The committee’s version will now move on to be voted on by the full House of Representatives.

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – House lawmakers are proposing alternative wording on a state constitutional referendum on school funding.

The House Constitution Committee voted Monday for a resolution that would guarantee an “effective” system of public schools.

Language placed on the ballot by petition calls for an “adequate and efficient” system.

The measure moves to the full House and could be considered as early as Tuesday.

If lawmakers agree, both original language and the Legislature’s language would appear on the November ballot. Voters can choose one or the other, or reject both.

Any alternative makes it more likely both versions will fail, because an initiative must win a majority of total votes cast on an issue and at least 40 percent of total votes in the election.

It’s unclear whether senators will offer an alternative.