The proposed bill enacts the "State-Tribal Education Compact Schools Act," which authorizes the Public Education Department to enter into state-tribal education compacts for the establishment of language- and culture-based schools in New Mexico. The bill outlines an application process for Indian nations, tribes, or pueblos to create these compact schools, emphasizing the prioritization of distinct language groups in the state. It also grants the department rulemaking authority and mandates that state-tribal education compact schools operate under specific requirements, including compliance with applicable laws, financial accountability, and the prohibition of sectarian practices.

Additionally, the bill exempts state-tribal education compact schools from certain state statutes and rules, allowing them to receive state and federal funding while requiring them to report student enrollment and progress to legislative committees. The act includes provisions for employment preferences for tribal members and prioritization of admissions for tribal students. It also amends the Public School Capital Outlay Act to include state-tribal education compact schools within its definitions. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-24-3
Final Version: 22-24-3