The bill amends Section 16-7.2-6 of the General Laws under "The Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act" by introducing a new section titled "Categorical programs, state funded expenses." This section outlines the state's responsibility for funding excess costs associated with special education, career and technical education, voluntary pre-kindergarten programs, and transportation costs for students attending out-of-district non-public schools.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Stabilization Fund for Central Falls, Davies, and the Met Center to ensure adequate funding for their students and provides for a regionalization bonus for public school districts that have been regionalized.

The bill also removes the requirement for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to prorate funds among school districts when the total approved costs for reimbursement exceed the appropriated funding for the fiscal year. Furthermore, it eliminates the previous funding structure for categorical programs as defined in the transition plan in 16-7.2-7. The changes aim to streamline funding processes and provide more direct support to schools and educational programs, taking effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2819: 16-7.2-6