The bill proposes an amendment to Chapter 16-21 of the General Laws, specifically adding a new section that outlines standards for the closure or phase-out of a public school building. The bill defines key terms such as "closure of a public school," "phase-out of a public school," "school merger," and "staff." It mandates that public school districts and the department of elementary and secondary education adhere to a specific process when proposing to close, merge, or phase out a public school building. This process includes announcing the proposal and providing detailed reports and contingency plans on the district's website and through other communication means within seven calendar days of the announcement.

The bill further requires the hosting of at least four meetings within thirty-five days following the release of the report and contingency plans to discuss the proposal with staff, students, parents, and community members. These meetings must be advertised in advance and include a public forum with a capacity for significant attendance. After these meetings, the district or department must share their final decision and, if proceeding with the closure, merger, or phase-out, provide revised contingency plans that incorporate community feedback. The act would take effect upon passage, requiring immediate compliance with these new procedures for any school district or department planning to close, merge, or phase out a public school.