Think tank: Thumbs down on Amendment 8

Amendment 8 has pros and cons but ultimately more of the latter, according to this analysis (go to page 26) from the limited-government devotees at the James Madison Institute.

The only education-related amendment left on next month's ballot, Amendment 8 would allow local governments to levy a local option sales tax for local community colleges. JMI notes Florida community colleges "have been praised as the most cost-effective element" in the state's education system and says local oversight of increased funding would place them "on notice to spend the money prudently and efficiently."

But, the analysis continues, the amendment could cause problems for big-ticket retailers in counties that pass the tax, offering buyers incentive to shop elsewhere. And, in the case of community colleges that attract students from around the state, "skeptics might well wonder how long it would be before local taxpayers begin to ask why they are ‘subsidizing' non-local students from counties where the community college sales tax is not being collected."

For other pros and cons, see this previous Gradebook post.

- Ron Matus, state education reporter

Comments

[terminator]

although the community colleges are the best bang for the buck and service the majority of Florida kids who want two year degree programs or wish to do the two + two program, I think this sets a bad precedent.
the state should be funding the community colleges better not dumping it off on the locals.
same with school taxes.
this past year was the first time ever the state contribution was less than the locals (49% vs 51%).
if locals pick up the slack even more it will let the state slide.
vote NO