The WYO House of Representatives for the second time has approved a bill that would strip the office of state superintendent of public instruction of many of its duties.

Senate File 104 would replace the elected superintendent of public instruction with a director appointed by the governor as head of the education agency. The superintendent will remain an elected state officer and will retain some education duties.

The bill is facing increasing scrutiny about its constitutionality.  So much so, an amendment that would have set aside $20,000 for current superintendent Cindy Hill to use in the event of a legal challenge to the measure if it indeed passes, was shot down in the house.

Representative Keith Gingery of Jackson (pictured), speaking on the House floor yesterday says even if this bill passes, it won’t be the end to what he calls a “polarizing” issue.

The bill will be debate in the House for the third time today.  If it passes, it will be sent to the governor for his signature.