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EDlection2018: Colorado Voters Reject Ballot Measure That Would Have Raised Taxes to Fund Schools

EDlection2018: This is one of several dozen races we’ve analyzed for the 2018 midterms that could go on to influence state or federal education policy. Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox; sign up for The 74 Newsletter.

More than 55 percent of Colorado voters said no to a ballot initiative that would have increased funding for schools throughout the state, according to the Secretary of State. Right now, Colorado spends some $2,800 less per student than the national average.

Under the Colorado Taxpayers Bill of Rights, all tax increases must be approved by at least 55 percent of voters. Over the last decade, a provision in the state constitution has applied $7.5 billion that would have gone to schools to other budget needs.


This year’s referendum was the third attempt to raise money for schools since 1994. It would have raised $1.6 billion by increasing taxes on incomes of $150,000 a year and on corporations, as well as residential and commercial property.

Backers of the initiative, known as Amendment 73, raised $1 million to support their campaign.

EDlection2018: This is one of several dozen races we’ve analyzed for the 2018 midterms that could go on to influence state or federal education policy. Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox; sign up for The 74 Newsletter.

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