Assembly Republicans oppose Democrats’ bill to divert more money to school construction

Republicans in the state Assembly on Wednesday said they oppose Assembly Bill 183, which would free up money from bond reserves to be spent on school construction.

The bill by Assemblywoman Debbie Smith, D-Sparks, was introduced as one of a series of bills Democrats say will create jobs.

Under A.B. 183, the percentage of borrowed money school districts are required to hold in reserve would be lowered and the money could be used for school construction.

It’s a direct grab for money Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval wants to use to help him make his proposed $5.8 billion general fund balance without breaking a campaign promise to oppose tax increases.

Sandoval would also need to change the law to lower the bond reserve requirements for his plan to work.

In a statement Wednesday Assembly Republicans said they would vote against Smith’s play to keep the money for school construction.

“In a time of belt tightening across the board, we should be doing everything we can to direct every available penny away from administration and into programs that directly improve a child’s education,” said Assembly Minority Leader Pete Goicoechea, R-Eureka. “A.B. 183 would not provide the flexibility our school districts need. Any bill effort to divert money away from the classroom just makes for a larger deficit and more painful cuts.”

Democrats hold a 26-16 advantage over Republicans in the Assembly, meaning they have enough votes alone to pass bills but would need party unanimity plus two Republicans to override a gubernatorial veto.

The Assembly Republicans’ statement said only “the majority” of the GOP members are on board against A.B. 183.