H.3209 would require either a new state lottery game be created with all revenues going towards k-12 education, or the revenues of an existing state lottery be dedicated entirely to k-12 education. Short sighted attempts to infuse more cash into our public education system are not serious attempts at education reform. We’ve discussed before how increasing education funding is not sufficient by itself to improve academic outcomes. However, even if this link was clearly established this bill contains no promise that k-12 funding will increase overall. Legislators may simply use the new lottery revenues to justify diverting general funds from education into other programs.
By South Carolina Policy Council
Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.