Illinois school funding overhaul being discussed

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — An Illinois senator says he’s altering controversial school funding legislation to increase its chances of passage.

Andy Manar proposed a measure last year to make school funding more equitable. It directed more state money to poorer districts at the expense of wealthier suburban ones. The legislation passed the Senate but hit opposition in the House.

The Bunker Hill Democrat says he’s filing a new bill with “substantial changes,” including a provision to offset higher costs of living in some districts. That means wealthier districts would lose less money than they would have under the previous bill.

GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner and other Republicans expressed concerns about the previous legislation. GOP Sen. Dale Righter says having a Republican governor will force compromise.

Illinois’ school funding formula hasn’t changed since 199