As a parent, a person who writes laws for a living, and as a taxpayer, I urge area voters to approve EHJR (Engrossed House Joint Resolution) 4204 Simple Majorities for Schools.
Currently state law treats schools differently than any other entity. We can pass a limit our vehicle tabs initiative with a simple majority. But for a regular maintenance and operation levy for our schools, we need 60 percent of the votes cast. Why should a minority of people be able to frustrate school funding?
The answer is that it is a relic of the Depression and World War II. Citizens know that laws need to be updated. The supermajority rule for school levies is just that a 63-year-old law that needs to be updated.
Our legislators have finally agreed to let the voters decide. So now is the time. Cast your ballot when it arrives in the mail. We should be able to decide that schools are just as important as car tabs.
We voters are smart. We can decide whether our school districts are using our money wisely. Theres no reason to impose greater obstacles than a majority vote; its the democratic way.
Join me in voting yes on EHJR 4204.
Steve Peiffle
Arlington