We are grateful for the following insights from Dr. Ted Kolderie, and other state resource people. In addition, the chairman of the state board is a proponent, and a task force is studying the issue. Missouri will see charter legislation introduced within a package of education bills. The bill is a split level provision that allows for Kansas City and St. Louis to operate under a stronger law than areas outside the city, where chartering authority will be left solely to the local board. Governor George Pataki introduced a strong charter proposal in his budget bill for next year.
Local support is strong.
Oregon has a bill in the House that is strongly supported in committee, and also enjoying support from the Senate. The Education Committee Chair, however, may need a bit of prodding. Ohio continues its efforts from last legislative session where charter legislation passed the House but got no further. Pennsylvania also continues efforts being carried over from last legislative session. Washington , undaunted by November's setback, has a bill being introduced in the Senate.