Money and School Funds: A Question of Fairness

Colorado voters face a new tax proposal that promises more money for schools but takes away refunds they have come to rely on. The plan, called Senate Bill 135, would stop the state from giving back money to taxpayers under the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR). Instead, it would let the government keep those funds and spend up to five billion dollars each year.

The bill claims that this extra spending will help education. In reality, it would add only a few hundred million dollars per year for a decade—about one and a half billion over ten years. That amount is far less than the $1.3 billion already raised through disciplined budgeting and prioritization without new taxes.

A key part of TABOR is to protect taxpayers from unchecked spending. When refunds were around $750–$800, families received up to $1,600 back each year. Those funds were used for groceries, car repairs, school supplies, or easing the cost of living. Removing that safety net means people lose money they counted on.

If TABOR is eliminated, the state could keep any revenue it collects and spend it as it sees fit. History shows that when politicians gain new sources of money, they rarely return to the original promises—such as protecting property taxes or other budget guarantees. The bill threatens not only refunds but also other financial protections for residents.

Proponents argue the money will benefit children, yet the record shows schools can get funding without erasing TABOR. The real issue is political priorities: some leaders prefer to fund their own projects and then ask voters for more money. The bill offers a permanent loophole that could undermine trust in the government’s commitments.

Colorado has proven it can raise school money without raising taxes. Voters should reject a plan that trades future financial security for a small increase in education spending. The decision is about whether citizens keep more of what they earn or give the state a permanent blank check.