This bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to reform the determination of state aid payments for school districts, establish minimum local effort requirements, and streamline the approval process for excess levies. Key provisions include the establishment of baseline funding for each district based on state aid from the 2018-19 school year and property tax deductions. The bill introduces a phased approach to adjusting state aid calculations, with specific revenue types considered for funding, and outlines the responsibilities of the superintendent of public instruction in determining these figures. Additionally, it repeals certain sections related to state aid adjustments and isolated school district transition payments, aiming to simplify the funding process.

The bill also modifies tax levy regulations for school districts, including the termination of unlimited levies approved before July 1, 2009, and adjustments to mill rates, changing "sixtyforty" to "sixty-five" mills in specific contexts. It introduces a new definition for "taxing district" and clarifies the conditions for school districts to levy taxes and obtain voter approval for increased levies. Furthermore, the bill mandates the inclusion of a "legislative tax relief" line item on property tax statements to inform taxpayers of their savings. The effective dates for these changes are set for after June 30, 2025, and for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2024, for certain provisions.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-27-04.1, 15.1-27-04.2, 57-15-01.1, 57-15-14, 57-15-14.2, 57-20-07.1