The proposed bill, sSB1512, establishes the School District Accountability Review Board (DARB) within the Department of Education to enhance financial management and accountability for local and regional boards of education identified as needing improvement. The DARB will consist of 13 members, including the Office of Policy and Management secretary, the education commissioner, and 11 appointed members with expertise in education and school management. Initial appointments must be completed by September 1, 2025, with members serving six-year terms. The board is tasked with submitting an annual report on its activities starting January 1, 2026, and will provide technical assistance to improve financial management in low-achieving districts. If a district fails to show acceptable progress for two consecutive years, the State Board of Education may seek legislation to allow DARB to take control of the district's financial operations.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law by repealing subsections (e) and (f) of section 10-223e and replacing them with provisions that empower the State Board of Education to require DARB to assist in improving student performance in low-achieving schools. This includes actions such as conducting audits, directing the use of state and federal funds, and implementing model curricula. The bill also mandates a forensic audit of the Bridgeport school district's financial operations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, with findings to be reported to the Education Committee, which is required to hold a hearing on the results. The majority of the bill's provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, while the audit provisions will take effect upon passage.