The proposed bill, designated as sHB7239, establishes the District Repair and Improvement Program (DRIP) to provide financial assistance to public school operators (PSOs) for minor capital repairs, improvements, and maintenance of school facilities. The program aims to reduce the need for extensive renovations and ensure that school buildings are safe and well-maintained for students and educators. Eligible recipients include local and regional boards of education, regional educational service centers, state charter schools, and certain interdistrict magnet school operators. The bill defines "district repair and improvement projects" as capital expenditure projects approved by PSOs for construction, renovation, repair, or compliance with health and safety requirements.

Funding for the DRIP program will be allocated annually by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) based on a formula that distributes 20% equally among PSOs, with the remaining 80% divided according to student enrollment and grand list percentages. The bill prohibits the use of allocated funds for local matching requirements or other state assistance programs, ensuring that the grants are dedicated solely to their intended purpose. Additionally, PSOs are required to submit annual reports detailing their expenditures and maintain accounting records for three years. To support the program, the bill authorizes the issuance of up to $60 million in general obligation bonds, with $30 million allocated for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, and establishes a nonlapsing District Repair and Improvement Account to manage these funds. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.