Governor’s Bill No. 6866 seeks to implement the Governor's budget recommendations for education in Connecticut, with significant provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025. The bill establishes a fixed population figure of 19,169 for Mansfield for grant calculations for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, while modifying existing statutes to extend the periods for grant reductions if total grants exceed appropriated amounts. It also introduces a matching grant program for local and regional boards of education to support personal technology policies in schools, effective July 1, 2026, and creates the Learner Engagement and Attendance Program to provide grants for home visiting programs aimed at reducing chronic absenteeism. The Department of Education will oversee these initiatives and report on their effectiveness biennially starting December 31, 2028.

The bill further amends the funding structure for interdistrict magnet schools, establishing a new tuition framework that limits charges to local or regional boards of education to fifty-eight percent of the previous fiscal year's tuition for the years ending June 30, 2025, through June 30, 2027. It also introduces provisions for preschool programs, ensuring that low-income families are exempt from tuition charges. Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Education to publish adjusted tuition amounts annually and outlines a competitive grant program for high-dosage tutoring and early intervention services. The bill includes changes to health insurance plans for retired teachers, adjusting state contributions and establishing a separate premium account. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities, support for low-income families, and the quality of educational programs across Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 10-264o, 10-221w, 10-183t