The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to school district expenditures by introducing new requirements for the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and county school superintendents. Specifically, if ADE determines that a school district's expenditures exceed its general budget limit or unrestricted capital budget limit without prior notification from the county school superintendent, ADE would be required to notify the superintendent and take necessary actions as prescribed by law. Additionally, the bill allows county school superintendents to review the operations and finances of any school district within their jurisdiction, enhancing oversight capabilities.

The bill also makes several technical changes, including clarifying the definition of "overexpenditure" and updating the thresholds for reporting and action. For instance, it specifies that if an overexpenditure will exceed $50,000 or 0.5 percent of the budget, ADE must escalate the matter to the State Board of Education for further action. Furthermore, it modifies the language regarding the drawing of warrants by county school superintendents, ensuring that they can only do so when notified by ADE that budget capacity exists. Overall, these updates aim to improve financial oversight and accountability within school districts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-107, 15-304, 15-103
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-107, 15-304, 15-103
House Engrossed Version: 15-107, 15-302, 15-304, 15-905, 15-103, 15-481
Chaptered Version: 15-107, 15-302, 15-304, 15-905, 15-103, 15-481