Kansas lawmakers have begun the process of renewing a statewide property tax that helps fund elementary and secondary schools.

The 20-mill tax raises about $575 million a year for public schools and must be renewed every two years. A mill equals $1 per $1,000 in assessed property value.

The Senate Education Committee heard testimony on the renewal Wednesday. Support came from the Kansas Association of School Boards and the Kansas National Education Association. There was no opposition, and the committee took no action on it.

Revenue from the tax is considered to be part of each school district’s contribution to overall education spending.