Peach Tree Times

In a recent editorial series, the issue of tax inequities in Georgia's school system has been brought to light. Donor counties such as DeKalb, Fulton, and Cobb face higher property taxes while their contributions are redistributed across the state through mechanisms like the Equalization Fund and Sparsity Grant.

The series proposes three strategies to address these inequities and establish a fair education funding model. The first strategy suggests amending Georgia’s tax laws to retain local revenues. This involves ensuring that property tax dollars collected in donor counties above the state's 20-mill cap remain for local use, including education and infrastructure. Additionally, redistribution should only occur once at least 65 percent of Georgia counties levy taxes at or above the state millage cap. Furthermore, donor counties should be exempt from excess contributions.

The second strategy calls for fully funding transportation for all school districts. Currently, many districts in donor counties cover most transportation costs from their budgets. The proposal includes statewide transportation funding and modernizing the Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula to account for transportation costs adequately. Utilizing Georgia's $16 billion surplus is also suggested to fund an efficient school transportation system.

The third strategy emphasizes prioritizing funding for students living in poverty. It proposes amending the QBE formula to include weighted funding for high-need students such as those living in poverty, English Language Learners, and students with disabilities. Targeted investment in underserved areas and transparent resource allocation are also recommended.

Implementing these solutions aims to end what is termed "tax enslavement," strengthen local schools by retaining revenues within donor counties, and promote fairness across Georgia by modernizing essential services like transportation.

To support these changes, taxpayers are encouraged to contact representatives about legislation that retains local revenues, funds statewide transportation, and prioritizes students in poverty. Engaging communities through education on tax inequities and demanding accountability in how education funds are allocated is also advised.

"Ending tax enslavement is not just about fairness – it is about ensuring that every child, every homeowner and every taxpayer in Georgia gets the resources and opportunities they deserve."