The resolution HCR2007 proposes a measure that mandates school districts in Arizona, with a student count of at least 7,500 or located in counties with populations exceeding 500,000, to allocate a minimum of 60% of their operational spending towards direct instructional expenses. Starting in fiscal year 2027-2028, districts that do not meet this requirement will be required to increase their spending on direct instructional expenses by at least 0.5% annually until compliance is achieved. The resolution also outlines penalties for non-compliance, including reductions in funding from the Classroom Site Fund based on the duration of non-compliance.

Additionally, the resolution allows for waivers from these requirements under certain conditions, such as limiting the duration of waivers to one year and restricting the number of waivers a district can receive within a ten-year period. The Auditor General is tasked with defining "direct instructional expenses" and "operational spending," and the resolution stipulates that it will be submitted to voters for approval in the next general election. This initiative aims to ensure that a significant portion of school funding is directed towards enhancing educational instruction.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-189.05, 15-248.01, 15-903, 15-502, 15-544, 2026-2027, 15-255, 35-190, 15-947, 15-189.06, 15-537
House Engrossed Version: 15-917