The bill amends the definitions related to the school funding formula in South Dakota, specifically within section 13-13-10.1. Key changes include the inclusion of nonresident students in the care of state agencies in the fall enrollment count of the receiving district, and the establishment of a target teacher salary starting at $62,045.62 for the school fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, which will increase annually based on the consumer price index. Additionally, the bill outlines various calculations for determining local need, alternative per student need, and local effort, which will now include specific provisions for wind energy tax revenue and adjustments for students in residential treatment facilities.

The bill also clarifies the definitions of terms such as "target teacher ratio factor," "English learner adjustment," and "allowable general fund cash balance," among others. It specifies how these factors will be calculated and their implications for funding allocations. Overall, the amendments aim to refine the funding formula to better accommodate the needs of school districts and ensure equitable distribution of resources based on enrollment and specific student demographics.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 12/27/2024: 13-13-10.1
Enrolled, 02/10/2025: 13-13-10.1