Some GOP Lawmakers Take Aim At School Levies

UNDATED - Some Republican lawmakers say they are planning an unprecedented campaign against Minnesota school districts seeking voter approved operating levies.

While state lawmakers traditionally stay out of local levy decisions, some Republicans say it's time to speak out.  The Chairman of the House Finance Committee Patrick Garofalo is reminding districts that they just received a boost in state funding, including another $50 per pupil.

However, Republican Representative Steve Gottwalt of St. Cloud says he's not planning on getting involved.  Part of Gottwalt's legislative district includes ROCORI, which will be asking voters to extend a levy in November. But Gottwalt did say there's too much emphasis on how much money is being spent, and not enough on the way that money is spent.

Republican Representative Tim O'Driscoll of Sartell says he's also planning on staying neutral on the issue.  His legislative district includes the Sartell-St. Stephen and Sauk Rapids-Rice school district, both have operating levies on the ballot this November.