Republicans in the Illinois Senate say a school funding overhaul is being rushed through the General Assembly.
Senator Andy Manar, a Democrat from Bunker Hill, says his proposal for a new school funding formula will distribute state money based primarily on need. That means wealthier schools would receive less money from the state.
Despite early involvement, Republicans say they're being blocked from final decisions, and the legislation gives too much money to Chicago schools. Manar, however, says Republicans will have a chance to suggest changes later on.
"We had 45 hours of committee hearings. The issue's been around for generations. But the answer is yes. I'm open to amendments, I'm open to constructive changes on policy, I'm not open to political calculus."
The measure was approved in committee, but Manar says he won’t call for a full Senate vote until lawmakers know how it would affect schools in their legislative districts.