There’s a lot of noise about tax cuts and shifting funds in this year’s ballot initiatives, but when it comes to Amendment B, there’s no trickery, no smoke and mirrors—just a straightforward win for Utah’s public schools. Unlike other measures (looking at you, Amendment A), Amendment B is all about providing more money for education without the usual strings attached. This is a smart, well-structured amendment that deserves support from anyone who cares about ensuring that our schools have the resources they need, both now and in the future.
What Amendment B Does
Amendment B seeks to raise the annual distribution cap from the State School Fund to public schools, increasing it from 4% to 5%. The Permanent State School Fund, which has grown steadily over the years, generates revenue through investments, and this amendment simply allows schools to access a slightly larger portion of that growing pot each year.
If Amendment B were in effect today, Utah schools would receive $120 million, compared to the $106 million they currently get. That’s an additional $14 million for education without a single penny being added to your taxes. More importantly, this extra money will help ensure our schools can handle the increasing demands they face—whether it’s hiring teachers, updating technology, or supporting students with special needs
Why It’s a Win for Education
Immediate Impact, No New Taxes: Amendment B doesn’t raise taxes or create a financial burden on Utah families. Instead, it’s about letting schools tap into already-existing resources that have been growing for years. The Permanent School Fund is in great shape, and allowing schools to access an extra 1% annually won’t threaten its long-term sustainability. It’s a common-sense adjustment that will deliver immediate results for Utah’s students.
Balancing Present and Future Needs: The best part? This isn’t a short-sighted cash grab that depletes future resources. The fund itself is managed carefully, growing each year through investments and land trust revenues. Raising the cap from 4% to 5% is a way to ensure that current students get the support they need, while still protecting the fund’s long-term health. We’ve got a system that’s working—why not make the most of it?
Closing the Funding Gap: Utah has long ranked near the bottom in terms of per-pupil spending. Amendment B won’t solve that problem overnight, but it’s a step in the right direction. More money for schools means more opportunities for students, smaller class sizes, better teacher retention, and stronger academic programs. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s a solid, realistic improvement that can make a big difference, especially in underserved areas.
The Smart Path Forward
Unlike other ballot measures this year, Amendment B doesn’t come with the usual bait-and-switch tactics. There’s no sneaky attempt to gut education funding or sneak through unrelated changes under the radar. It’s a straightforward proposal that boosts school funding without cutting corners or creating future budget problems.
For those who prioritize public education—whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or simply someone who cares about the next generation—this amendment makes perfect sense. It’s about strengthening our schools today, while ensuring the fund continues to grow and benefit future generations.
Addressing the Fear of Depleting the Fund
Some may express concerns that increasing the distribution to 5% could deplete the fund over time. Critics might suggest that we could run the risk of eating into the fund’s principal, thus reducing its ability to grow and support future generations. While it’s always wise to think about sustainability, this particular worry is more fear-driven than grounded in reality.
The fact is, the Permanent School Fund is well-managed and growing healthily. In this case, tapping into a bit more of the annual earnings is not a reckless move—it’s an investment in education. It’s like putting more into a child’s education fund: the upfront cost isn’t just an expenditure, it’s an investment in future returns. The return on a more well-funded education system will be smarter, more prepared students who contribute to the state's economy and future well-being.
Moreover, this 1% increase is a careful adjustment, not a dramatic overhaul. The fund’s long-term health remains intact, while current students get a much-needed boost. Essentially, Amendment B strikes the right balance between preserving the future and investing in today’s needs.
The Case for a ‘Yes’ Vote
Here’s the thing: Utah’s schools are chronically underfunded, and every year we hear the same story—teachers paying out of pocket for supplies, outdated textbooks, overcrowded classrooms. Amendment B won’t solve all of these problems, but it’s a big step in the right direction. It allows schools to tap into more resources without raising taxes or further complicating the state’s budget.
This amendment is about making sure our schools can keep up with the growing demands of a modern education system. More teachers, better resources, smaller class sizes—these aren’t luxuries, they’re necessities. Amendment B delivers those necessities without the usual political maneuvering or fine print. It’s a clean, smart boost for education, and it’s one we should all get behind.
Conclusion: Vote YES on Amendment B
Amendment B is a no-brainer for anyone who believes in the power of education to shape our future. It’s a simple, straightforward proposal that puts more money into our schools without new taxes, and without jeopardizing the future health of the fund. This is exactly the kind of smart, proactive policy we need to give our students the best shot at success.
When you cast your vote, remember: Amendment B is a win for students, teachers, and schools across Utah. Vote YES on Amendment B, and let’s ensure our schools have the resources they need to thrive.
Full Text of the Ballot Language:
"Shall the Utah Constitution be amended to increase the limit on the annual distributions from the State School Fund to public schools from 4% to 5% of the fund?"
This straightforward amendment allows schools to receive a slightly larger percentage of an already-growing Permanent State School Fund, giving Utah’s students a much-needed funding boost without raising taxes (Ballotpedia) (UtahPTA.org).