Colorado Considers Ballot Measure to Increase Education Funding

January 23, 2026 - 00:10

A significant proposal to increase funding for public schools is advancing in Colorado. State lawmakers are moving forward with plans to place a measure on the upcoming ballot that would allow the state to retain and spend more tax revenue specifically for education.

Currently, Colorado's Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (TABOR) requires the government to refund excess tax collections to residents. This new constitutional amendment would create an exception, permitting the state to keep surplus revenue above the TABOR cap to fund public schools, from kindergarten through higher education. The retained funds would be directed into the State Education Fund.

Proponents argue this change is critical to address chronic underfunding in Colorado's education system, which they say has led to teacher shortages, large class sizes, and outdated resources. They emphasize that the money would be dedicated solely to educational purposes.

If approved by the legislature, the measure will go before voters in November. The decision would mark a pivotal shift in the state's budget policy, aiming to provide a more stable financial foundation for schools without raising new taxes. The outcome could reshape educational resources for Colorado students for years to come.