The Substitute House Bill No. 6864 proposes the state budget for the biennium ending June 30, 2027, with total appropriations of approximately $27.2 billion for FY 26 and $28.5 billion for FY 27. The bill includes significant funding allocations for various state agencies, including increases for the Legislative Management, the Division of Criminal Justice, and the Department of Developmental Services, among others. Notable insertions in the bill include the establishment of new programs such as the Domestic Workers Education and Training Grant Program and the LGBTQ Justice and Opportunity Network, as well as increased funding for existing initiatives like the Veterans' Opportunity Pilot and the Tax Relief for Elderly Renters. The bill also emphasizes support for vulnerable populations, with increased funding for housing and homeless services, health-related services, and educational initiatives.
In addition to the appropriations, the bill introduces several amendments to existing laws, including new reporting requirements for the Department of Developmental Services and the Commissioner of Higher Education. It also allows for the transfer of appropriated funds between agencies to maximize federal matching funds and mandates that unspent funds related to collective bargaining agreements remain available for future use. Key deletions include the repeal of certain provisions regarding the Probate Court Administration Fund, which increases the threshold for transferring excess funds to the General Fund. Overall, the bill reflects a comprehensive approach to state budgeting, ensuring that essential services are adequately funded while also addressing specific community needs and enhancing accountability through new reporting measures.