Money, politics, priorities and the need to work out problems created as a result of previous decisions, along with the lack of preparation for the future, have put the financial bite on school districts throughout Texas.
Here in North Texas, we see just how serious the problems are. School districts are looking to the Legislature for some relief to the funding problem. The Legislature is not as helpful as it might be because of the overall state budget shortfall.Everyone is hoping that the $830 million in federal education funds that were held up in D.C. will bring some relief to schools in this area, although some people are worried that the money won't all go to education. Previous federal funds for schools were used for other purposes. This time around, the Legislature should make sure the money isn't used for anything except education.That additional influx of funds could save some teachers' jobs and help maintain current standards. But that won't be enough to solve the problem. Many of the local districts have hit the cap -- the highest tax rate allowed by state law. That should be revisited and raised. So, too, should the corporate tax structure be reworked to help bring the state more funds and take some pressure off the local districts.The funds dedicated to public education from the Texas Lottery have been falling steadily over the last several years, and they've never been sufficient to make much of a dent in the overall budget needs.Perhaps it's time to look at another source of revenue: Full casino gambling.The outflow of Texas cash to casinos in other states is in the billions of dollars annually. Keeping that money in the state would be a huge benefit to Texas and Texans.The jobs created would benefit the cities where casinos are located in two ways: first through the construction phase and then for the people needed to operate the casinos.The taxes paid through casino operations would benefit the local economy as well as the state. A portion of them should be dedicated to public education with the rest going to whatever program state lawmakers deem proper.Although this is not an immediate solution to the school funding crisis, it is a viable long-term solution and could limit any future shortfall.As someone who enjoys an occasional bit of gambling, having to go out of state to play is not my preference.Texas has one of the best card games going named after it -- Texas hold'em. The game is featured as a mainstay of televised gambling competitions from casinos in the U.S. and internationally. For Texas not to have legalized gambling that features its namesake game is nothing short of stupid.Additionally, allowing eight-liner machines and video lottery terminals in selected establishments could raise income for the licensed businesses as well as the state.The Legislature should let the voters decide whether casino gambling should be allowed, just like they did when the Texas Lottery Act was approved by a 2-to-1 ratio in November of 1991. If the voters want expanded gambling, they'll vote for it. If they don't, it won't pass.The benefits far outweigh the opposition's arguments to expanding gambling in Texas. Convention activity, property tax income, and hotel and tourist spending would rise. Multiple casinos could be a huge draw wherever they are located. Something like a Las Vegas Strip located in cities such as Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Houston, El Paso, Lubbock, Amarillo and even Austin could benefit the entire state, not just the local area.At least, that's my solution. Do you have a better one?Charles Reasons of Burleson is a member of the 2011 Star-Telegram Community Columnist Panel. c_j_reasons@att.netHave more to add? News tip? Tell us
