This bill aims to revise education laws in Montana to better support English learners by establishing state funding mechanisms for school districts that serve these students. It introduces a new section that allows public school districts to receive state matching funds for programs aimed at students with limited English proficiency, as defined in existing law. The Office of Public Instruction will distribute funds based on prior year allocations, ensuring that the money is specifically used for programs serving English learners. Additionally, the bill establishes professional stipends for highly qualified teachers who hold specific certifications and work with English learners, with stipends varying based on the teacher's assignment and the school's poverty level.

The bill appropriates $5 million from the state general fund for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the funding of programs for English learners, as well as $25,000 for the stipends for qualified teachers. It also includes provisions for notifying tribal governments about the act and outlines the intent for codification within existing education laws. The effective date for the implementation of this act is set for July 1, 2025.