The bill aims to enhance agricultural education in Montana by revising the requirements and payment structures under the Advancing Agricultural Education in Montana Program. Key changes include the elimination of a state special revenue account and the introduction of payments for small schools that provide agricultural education through alternative means. The bill also removes the rulemaking authority previously held by the office of public instruction and establishes new eligibility criteria for payments based on specific educational standards and assessments.

Additionally, the bill outlines various payment structures for agricultural education programs, including payments for plans of improvement, detailed budgets, and credits awarded through online courses or work-based learning partnerships. Schools that add agricultural education to their curriculum or expand their teaching staff are also eligible for significant financial support. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
SB0132_1.pdf: 20-7-334
SB0132_2.pdf: 20-7-334
Amended: 20-7-334
Introduced: 20-7-334