The Taxpayers League would have liked legislators to vote against the increase in K-12 funding that ultimately became law. Much of this increase in funding was used to increase the per pupil allowance, which had not kept pace with inflation in previous years. In addition, a portion of the funding increase is dedicated to reducing class sizes a necessary reform that helps to improve student performance. Ultimately, an investment in K-12 education is an investment in the state's human infrastructure that pays off in terms of a stronger economy and more prosperity for everyone. The Taxpayers League also supported a provision that would have allowed for a referendum to reverse increases in local levies.
Local governments support the right of every citizen to be heard during budget deliberations.
Citizen control of the budget process is ensured in a number of ways. First, citizens elect the local officials who ultimately make budget decisions. Second, local governments hold open meetings that allow the public to be heard in taxing and spending decisions. The public interest is served by having citizen input in the budget setting process not by causing a train wreck at the very end of a process in which everyone has had a fair chance to participate. The potential of a reverse referendum will create additional administrative expense, disrupt the orderly administration of government, and ultimately work to the detriment of local residents.