The Iowa House and Senate have each passed a budget for public schools’ general funds for the upcoming fiscal year, but will look to close the gap on some key differences before sending a finalized number to the Governor’s desk.

A one percent increase in state supplemental aid was approved by both chambers, the money used to pay for teachers’ salaries and school programs. However, the Senate is including nearly $12 million more in their version to shore up inequities between districts in state aid and transportation funding for rural districts.

State Senator Ken Rozenboom believes the general fund increase and the equity bill go hand-in-hand when it comes to funding public education.

Greg Ebeling told KNIA/KRLS News before the session any increase below three percent for state supplemental aid will not be enough to cover the district’s annual increase in expenses.