Sometimes, a word makes all the difference. The money schools use to pay the bills, cover health insurance premiums, buy fuel and keep the lights on is labeled “discretionary” in state parlance. But that sounds like play money, not money vital to school district operations. The difference became  apparent as discreationay funding was cut by $82.5 million over the past five years and many district were forced to ask taxpayers to pass supplemental  levies to keep the doors open. Educators speaking to the interim education committee say “discretionary” sends the wrong message.  They are using the term “operational”/Bill Roberts, Statesman. More here.

Question: Would you describe most legislators in North Idaho as "discretionary" or "operational"?