The bill amends Section 16-7.2-6 of the General Laws under "The Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act" to enhance state funding for educational programs, particularly focusing on special education. Key insertions include the definition of extraordinary costs for special education students, which will be set at costs exceeding three and one-half times the core foundation amount in fiscal year 2027 and three times in fiscal year 2028. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is tasked with collecting data on educational costs exceeding two times the core foundation amount and will appropriate funds in the following fiscal year for excess costs related to special education students who enroll after the budget approval. Additionally, the bill establishes a stabilization fund for Central Falls, Davies, and the Met Center, ensuring adequate funding for their students, and outlines support for career and technical education, pre-kindergarten programs, and transportation for students attending out-of-district non-public schools.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for state support of school resource officers (SROs), defining them as career law enforcement officers working with schools, and mandates state reimbursement for half of their salaries and benefits under certain conditions. Notably, the bill deletes a previous provision regarding regionalization bonuses, indicating a shift in focus towards direct support for school safety and special education funding. Overall, the amendments aim to provide targeted financial support to address the specific needs of various educational programs and districts, with the act set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
109: 16-7.2-6