The bill amends Section 16-7.2-6 of the General Laws under "The Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act" to improve funding mechanisms for educational programs. Key insertions include state funding to cover excess costs for special education, career and technical education, and transportation for students attending out-of-district non-public schools. It also establishes a Central Falls, Davies, and Met Center Stabilization Fund to address the financial challenges faced by these institutions. Additionally, the bill introduces criteria for allocating funds for early childhood programs and ensures that regionalized school districts receive a consistent six percent regionalization bonus based on their foundation education aid, replacing the previous tiered structure that decreased after the first fiscal year.

Moreover, the bill outlines new regulations for school resource officers (SROs), defining them as career law enforcement officers who work in a community-oriented policing role within schools. It provides state support to cover half of the costs associated with SRO salaries and benefits for public middle and high schools, contingent on specific conditions related to school enrollment. The bill also deletes a previous provision regarding categorical program funding and establishes a transition plan for these programs. Overall, the proposed changes aim to enhance educational equity and support while ensuring effective allocation of resources to meet the needs of students and school districts.

Statutes affected:
5202: 16-7.2-6