This bill amends the current law regarding state aid for special education by eliminating the requirement for catastrophic special education funds to be prorated among school districts. Instead, it mandates that disbursements to school districts must be at least 80 percent of their entitlement for catastrophic aid costs in the fiscal year. The bill also clarifies the conditions under which school districts are eligible for aid, specifically when the costs of special education exceed 3 and 1/2 times the estimated state average expenditure per pupil from the previous school year.

Additionally, the bill modifies the funding mechanism for special education aid by appropriating the necessary amount from the education trust fund, allowing the governor to draw funds regardless of the trust fund's balance. If the balance falls below zero after such withdrawals, the state comptroller is required to transfer sufficient funds from the general fund to cover the deficit. This change aims to ensure that special education programs receive consistent funding without delays, thereby supporting school districts in managing their special education costs effectively. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:18
As Amended by the House: 186-C:18
Version adopted by both bodies: 186-C:18
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 186-C:18