This bill amends existing education funding laws to expand the definition of "pupil" in relation to school funding, specifically by including those who are enrolled in Medicaid. The current language referring to "pupils eligible for a free or reduced-price meal" is replaced with "economically disadvantaged pupil," which encompasses pupils from kindergarten through grade 12 who qualify for the federal free or reduced-price meal program or are enrolled in Medicaid, provided their household income meets the necessary criteria. Additionally, the bill clarifies that no pupil or family is required to participate in either the federal meal program or Medicaid.

Furthermore, the bill increases funding for schools with pupils enrolled in Medicaid by adjusting the funding formula to provide an additional $2,300 for each pupil who meets the new definition of economically disadvantaged. It also modifies the criteria for extraordinary need grants to municipalities based on the equalized valuation per economically disadvantaged pupil, replacing the previous criteria tied to free or reduced-price meal eligibility. The changes aim to ensure that schools receive adequate funding to support economically disadvantaged students, thereby enhancing educational opportunities. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 198:38, 198:40-a, 198:40-f