The bill amends Sections 33-909 and 33-911 of the Idaho Code to enhance the Public School Facilities Cooperative Funding Program and the School District Facilities Fund. It introduces new eligibility criteria for school districts seeking financial support for unsafe facilities, allowing those that have not approved bond or plant facility levies in the last two years, or those needing additional funds beyond what was raised, to apply for assistance. A panel within the state department of education will oversee applications to ensure satisfactory project completion. The bill also prioritizes the distribution of funds for existing school bonds and clarifies the payment calculation process to ensure effective use of funds for school facility construction, renovation, and maintenance.

Additionally, the bill mandates that any funds received by school districts for facility needs must be deducted from property tax levies to prevent double charging taxpayers. School districts are required to report the amount received and its intended use in budget certifications and property tax notices. The Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind is recognized as a school district under this bill, allowing it to receive distributions based on average daily attendance. Provisions for fiscal years 2025 and 2026 ensure minimum distributions for qualifying school districts, and the state controller is instructed to transfer $25 million from the bond levy equalization fund to the public school facilities cooperative fund. An emergency clause makes certain sections effective immediately upon passage, while others will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-909, 33-911