This bill amends the calculation of minimum state foundation aid for school districts in Iowa, specifically modifying the provisions in Code section 257.1. The new language establishes that each school district is entitled to receive foundation aid based on the difference between the amount of foundation property tax in the district and the combined foundation base for that district. If the calculated foundation aid is less than the state foundation aid minimum, which is defined as the sum of various district costs related to teacher salaries and professional development, the district will receive an amount equal to this minimum. Additionally, if the total of foundation aid and property tax exceeds the combined foundation base, the Department of Management is required to adjust the district's foundation property tax rate accordingly.

The bill also includes the deletion of certain subsections in Code sections 257.2 and 257.10 that are rendered obsolete by these changes. The applicability of the bill is set for school budget years beginning on or after July 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation aims to ensure that school districts receive adequate funding while also streamlining the calculation process for foundation aid.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 257.1, 257.3, 257.10