Should lawmakers be held in contempt?
Another showdown between the Washington Supreme Court and state lawmakers over public school funding is slated for 2 p.m. on Sept. 3.
The state’s top court is asking why it shouldn’t hold the Legislature in contempt for failing to adequately fund the state’s public schools.
The conflict stems from a 2012 state Supreme Court case, McCleary v. State of Washington. The court ruled that the state was not meeting its “paramount duty” of adequately funding education and therefore was in violation of the Constitution. Lawmakers have until 2018 to boost education funding to a level the court deems sufficient.
The state ordered the Legislature to show by April 30th how “through immediate, concrete action, that it is making real and measurable progress, not simply promises” toward providing ample funding for basic education.
Lawmakers submitted a report but it did not include a plan detailing concrete action. The plaintiffs in the court case asked the court to take action; the court has now asked state lawmakers to defend themselves.
TVW will broadcast the hearing live.
Lauren Dake
Lauren Dake covers politics for The Columbian. You can reach her at 360-735-4534 or lauren.dake@columbian.com. Follow her on Twitter .