Topeka ? A consultant hired by the state to determine what a “suitable” public school education costs said Tuesday the study may not be done in time to be a factor in the current legislative debate about school finance.

But John Myers, partner in the Denver-based Augenblick & Myers, said the study will recommend the state institute automatic inflationary increases in school funding.

Myers, speaking at the annual Public Education Forum, said the state also should reduce some of its requirements, allowing local school districts more discretion on what kinds of classes to offer.

Myers said the study will probably be done around mid-May, which is after the scheduled end of the 2002 legislative session.

Lawmakers face a $680 million revenue shortfall. Public school funding makes up about half the state budget. Lawmakers are fighting about whether to reduce school funding, keep schools at the same level, or provide a small increase.

The study was commissioned by the Legislature last year after lawmakers argued about whether to increase taxes for schools. The Legislature did not increase taxes for schools then.

Staff writer Scott Rothschild can be reached at (785) 354-4222.