The proposed bill, SB1709, aims to establish a new funding weight of 0.021 specifically for tribal students within Arizona's school finance formula. This weight will be added to the existing "Group B" weights, which are used to determine funding based on various student characteristics and needs. The bill defines a "tribal student" as a pupil who identifies as American Indian or Alaskan Native in their enrollment information, thereby expanding the criteria for funding eligibility.

In addition to the new weight, the bill modifies the current definition of "Group B" to include tribal students alongside other categories such as students with disabilities and English learners. The bill also makes conforming changes to ensure consistency within the law. If the implementation of this new weight results in increased Basic State Aid costs, it may have a fiscal impact on the state General Fund. The bill is set to take effect on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-901, 15-943, 15-901.08, 15-808, 15-447.01, 15-797, 15-816.01, 15-761, 15-902.04, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, 2023-2024, 15-944, 15-765, 15-751, 15-752, 15-753, 15-501, 15-771, 15-971, 15-946, 15-945
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-901, 15-943, 15-901.08, 15-808, 15-447.01, 15-797, 15-816.01, 15-761, 15-902.04, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, 2023-2024, 15-944, 15-765, 15-751, 15-752, 15-753, 15-501, 15-771, 15-971, 15-946, 15-945