Act 60 (Vermont law)

Act 60, officially known as the Education Property Tax Act, is a Vermont law enacted in 1997 that fundamentally changed the way public schools are funded in the state. It aims to provide equal educational opportunities for all Vermont students by reducing disparities in per-pupil spending between wealthy and less affluent school districts.

The key component of Act 60 is the creation of a statewide education property tax. This tax is levied on all taxable property in Vermont, regardless of the local school district's wealth. The revenue generated from this tax is then pooled into a state education fund.

This education fund is distributed to school districts based on a formula that considers factors such as student enrollment, the number of students with special needs, and the number of students from low-income families. The goal is to provide each district with sufficient funding to offer a quality education, regardless of its local property wealth.

Act 60 has been a subject of ongoing debate and controversy since its implementation. Supporters argue that it has succeeded in reducing disparities in educational funding and opportunity. Critics contend that it has led to higher property taxes in some areas, reduced local control over education spending, and has not fully eliminated funding inequities. Amendments and adjustments to Act 60 have been made over the years to address some of these concerns. The law continues to be a significant factor in Vermont's education landscape.