Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1205100
15 | WEAnews was conducted in 2017. Findings indicated that Wyoming's school funding model was underfunding education by up to $90 million annually. Unfortunately, no changes were made as a result of the 2017 recalibration study. A recalibration study will be conducted this year, with results likely available for consideration during the 2021 legislative session. Special Education Funding Cap In 2018, a substantial change was implemented regarding special education funding in Wyoming. The state legislature passed a law that capped special education funding which has resulted in a $325,000 deficit in special education funding. A bill sponsored by the Joint Education Committee, House Bill 46, has been proposed which will effectively remove the cap on special education funding so that the state will continue to reimburse special education at 100% of the cost and comply with the Wyoming Constitution. Get Involved: Shape Wyoming's Education Policy Your Association works diligently throughout the session—both advocating for education before state leaders—and providing ample opportunity for WEA members to stay informed and to engage in the legislative process. Beginning on February 10th, and continuing through the duration of the Budget Session, WEA members will receive daily legislative updates via email, detailing the status and impact of education- related bills. WEALegislativeInfo.com is also a fantastic resource for members wishing to stay informed and to help in shaping education policy. On this site, you will find a daily Bill Tracker, a Cyber Lobbying platform that makes it easier than ever to share your views and expertise with your legislators, and—new this year—WEA is pleased to introduce our new Legislative Affairs blog! There you will find real-time updates on happenings at the statehouse, and detailed bill breakdowns and analysis from the WEA Lobby Team. The WEA Lobby Team looks forward to serving as an informed, influential advocate for education at the 2020 Budget Session. Ultimately, it's essential to remember one thing: Actively engaged members are critical to legislative wins. Use the resources provided through your Association to stay informed, and to influence policymakers to make the best decisions for education in Wyoming!