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 by introducing new legal language that specifies categories of state-funded expenses. These categories include excess costs for special education, career and technical education, access to high-quality pre-kindergarten programs, and transportation for students attending out-of-district non-public schools. Additionally, a Stabilization Fund is established for Central Falls, Davies, and the Met Center to ensure adequate funding, with shared funding responsibilities between the state and Central Falls. The bill also introduces a regionalization bonus for public school districts that have been regionalized and outlines provisions for state support for school resource officers, including their roles and training requirements. A specific provision has been deleted, indicating a shift in funding priorities.

Furthermore, the bill creates a new funding category for civics education, mandating that funding be allocated based on district needs starting in fiscal year 2025, with a minimum annual allocation of $1 million, including $600,000 for teacher professional development and student-led civic projects. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will oversee this fund and assess its effectiveness. The bill also specifies requirements for school resource officers in public middle and high schools, providing reimbursement for half of their salaries and benefits based on enrollment. Provisions for the retention and carryover of unutilized funds are included, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with a severability clause to maintain the validity of remaining provisions.