The bill outlines appropriations for Iowa's education system for the fiscal year 2025-2026, allocating significant funding to the Department for the Blind, the Department of Education, and the State Board of Regents. Key allocations include $3,236,726 for the Department for the Blind and $7,073,808 for general administration within the Department of Education. The bill mandates a report from the Department of Education by January 15, 2026, on its anti-bullying programming and expenditures. It also emphasizes support for diverse educational needs, including mental health services, STEM education, and professional development for educators, while ensuring unencumbered funds from certain appropriations remain available for future use.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new Court Reporter Equipment Grant Program, allowing individuals in court reporter training programs to apply for grants to purchase necessary equipment, with $50,000 appropriated from the general fund for its implementation. It repeals previous code sections related to the court reporter equipment incentive fund and transfers any remaining funds to the new grant program fund. The bill also includes provisions for various educational initiatives, such as career and technical education, early childhood services, and mental health training for educators, while ensuring funding for scholarships and workforce training initiatives to enhance education and workforce readiness in Iowa.