By Sam Baker, KERA 90.1 reporter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-466025.mp3
Sen. Shapiro of Plano Touts 'Better Approach' on School Finance Reform
Dallas, TX –
Earlier this week, the Comptroller said a bill approved by the Texas House to lower school property taxes as part of school finance reform could not raise enough money to cover the reduction. In particular, Carole Keeton Strayhorn pointed to a portion of the bill offering business taxpayers the choice of the existing franchise tax or a new payroll tax - whichever is lower. Under that option, Strayhorn said the top 100 franchise taxpayers would see their bills drop by two-thirds. The Senate school finance reform plan also calls for a one-third reduction in school property taxes - and a tax on businesses. But Education Committee chair Florence Shapiro of Plano believes the Senate has a better approach. Senate committee hearings on school finance reform begin Tuesday, March 29th. 90.1's Sam Baker filed this report.