Senate File 647 outlines appropriations for the fiscal year 2025-2026, focusing on various educational departments and initiatives in Iowa. Key allocations include $3,207,190 for the Department for the Blind and $7,073,808 for general administration within the Department of Education. The bill mandates the Department of Education to report on anti-bullying programming by January 15, 2026, and allows unencumbered funds to remain available for the following fiscal year. It also establishes funding for initiatives such as the Iowa Reading Research Center and the Computer Science Professional Development Incentive Fund, while emphasizing support for students with disabilities and promoting STEM education.

Additionally, the bill addresses workforce development by appropriating funds for skilled workforce shortage tuition grants and workforce training. It introduces a new court reporter equipment grant program and establishes several new funds aimed at providing financial assistance to students in accredited institutions. The bill ensures that unspent balances at the end of the fiscal year remain available for future educational expenditures and includes provisions for the college student aid commission to accept contributions to these funds. Overall, Senate File 647 aims to enhance educational opportunities, support workforce development, and improve health care services in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Reprinted: 256.7, 256.189, 8.33, 256.212, 256.219
Enrolled: 256.7, 256.189, 8.33, 256.212, 256.219