Statement on Education Funding in House Republican Budget Proposal

Earlier today, the General Assembly's House Republican Caucus released a proposal that would adjust the state budget for fiscal year 2025.

The proposal would maintain the additional $150 million for K-12 education in FY 2025 that is currently part of the state budget (P.A. 23-204 § 341). Over $60 million of this funding was proposed to be cut under the budget Gov. Lamont presented earlier this year.

Additionally, the proposal would provide an additional $79 million over current spending levels to fully fund the Excess Cost grant, which reimburses school districts for the costs associated with educating students who have extraordinary special education needs.

Lisa Hammersley, Executive Director of the School and State Finance Project, issued the following statement in response to the release of the House Republican Caucus' budget proposal.

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The budget proposal released today from House Republicans is another strong example of the wide-ranging and bipartisan support for equitable, student-centered funding for all of our state’s students.

We applaud House Republicans for proposing a budget that prioritizes K-12 education, reduces potential burdens on property taxpayers and local budgets, and keeps the promises made last year to Connecticut’s over 500,000 students.

We thank House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora, Rep. Tammy Nuccio, and Rep. Holly Cheeseman for their continued support for student-centered funding and their commitment to students, families, and educators across the state.

As we enter the final weeks for the legislative session, we urge legislative leadership and members on both sides of the political aisle to continue prioritizing students by supporting legislation — such as H.B. 5212 — that would ensure all students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom.

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