The bill amends Section 16-21.1-2 of the General Laws to create new school bus districts, increasing the number from five to nine to improve transportation for K-12 students, including those in special education. The amendments replace previous county designations with specific town and city names, such as including East Greenwich and West Warwick in Region II and Exeter and North Kingstown in Region IV. Importantly, students who were receiving transportation under the old system prior to December 30, 2025, will be allowed to continue in their existing districts until July 1, 2029. The bill also ensures that state funding for excess transportation costs to out-of-district non-public schools will not be less than the higher amount provided in fiscal years 2026 or 2027, with any unused funds redirected to support transportation for homeless students, those in foster care, and students with high special needs.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 16-7.2-6 to enhance funding for educational programs, including provisions for state funding to cover excess costs related to special education and access to high-quality pre-kindergarten programs. It establishes a Stabilization Fund for Central Falls, Davies, and the Met Center to ensure adequate funding for their students. The bill also outlines support for school resource officers (SROs) in public middle and high schools, detailing reimbursement for half of their employment costs and establishing eligibility criteria based on school enrollment. Furthermore, it includes a regionalization bonus for public school districts that have been regionalized, aiming to improve transportation logistics, support vulnerable populations, and enhance school safety.

Statutes affected:
6236: 16-21.1-2, 16-7.2-6