Senate Education delayed a decision on SB 67 Tuesday morning, stalling the repeal of $6.5 million that the Legislature passed last year.

The additional money, which came outside the funding formula, was earmarked for districts currently meeting adequate yearly progress. If a district didn't make AYP, the district could apply for the funds.

During the committee hearing, ASBSD Executive Director Wayne Lueders spoke up in opposition to the bill. Citing that the bill was a part of the permanent code, Lueders pointed out that removing the funding amounted to a $6.5 million cut to local schools.

The question stalled committe action, and Senate Ed delayed action on the bill on a 4-2 vote.

The bill comes on the heals of a republican-backed plan to provide an additional $9 million to schools in each of the next five years. The plan, which was touted as a $45 million dollar plan, actually delivers $9 million in annual, ongoing funds.

Should SB 67 pass, the value of that plan dwindles to a $2.5 million increase over what the Legislature has already committed.