Rep. Phil Rubin on education funding and why a new property tax scheme could make problems worse

May 18, 2026 - 21:40

After a year-long delay that has left North Carolina as the only state in the nation without a budget for the current fiscal year, Republican legislative leaders may soon push forward a controversial new property tax scheme. Representative Phil Rubin is speaking out against the proposal, arguing it would worsen existing problems in education funding rather than solve them.

Rubin, a Democrat from Raleigh, says the proposed plan would shift more of the tax burden onto homeowners while cutting revenue for local school districts. He warns that this approach could lead to deeper inequities between wealthy and poor communities. "We are already seeing classrooms struggle with outdated materials and overcrowding," Rubin stated. "This scheme would make it harder for districts to raise the money they need, especially in rural areas."

The lawmaker also criticized the broader budget impasse, noting that schools have been forced to operate on last year's funding levels despite rising costs for teacher salaries, supplies, and facility maintenance. He called on both parties to return to the negotiating table with a focus on sustainable, long-term solutions rather than quick fixes that shift the financial burden to property owners.

Rubin's comments come as education advocates across the state grow increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress in Raleigh. Without a new budget, many school systems are bracing for potential cuts or freezes in essential programs. The debate over property taxes is expected to intensify as lawmakers seek a compromise that can finally end the stalemate.