The Holding School Budgets Harmless During Modernizations Amendment Act of 2025 aims to protect the budgets of schools undergoing modernization by prohibiting any reductions in their operating budgets while they are utilizing swing spaces. This legislation addresses the challenges faced by schools during modernization, as temporary relocations can lead to significant enrollment declines, which in turn negatively impact the available resources for the school community. The bill seeks to ensure that schools have the necessary funding to support students and staff during these transitions, thereby maintaining stability within the school environment.
To implement this protection, the bill amends the Schools First in Budgeting Amendment Act of 2022 by adding a new subparagraph that explicitly states that no budget decrease shall occur if a school is or will be using a swing space due to modernization or other capital projects. This amendment is designed to provide financial security for schools during the often disruptive modernization process, allowing them to retain critical educators and resources essential for a successful educational experience.