Summary: Although local governments have traditionally been responsible for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of America's school facilities, most state education agencies have established a state presence in school facilities matters using a variety of approaches. However, states' level of involvement varied: about one-fourth of them had programs that included ongoing funding assistance, a variety of technical assistance and compliance review activities, and data collection on facility condition. 10 states were involved in one or none of the activities. Further, officials reported differing viewpoints and traditions on state involvement in facilities matters. Such variations in approach and philosophy among states illustrate the lack of consensus on the most appropriate and effective state role. Today, state involvement in school facilities remains in flux. Because the physical condition of school buildings has become a concern in school finance equity litigation, experts expect disparities in facilities to be a continuing a pressing issue. States will likely be looked to for ways to lessen these disparities. State governments, however, face pressure from other rapidly rising budget expenditures, such as health care, that compete for the same limited funds.
