The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 1145, aims to enhance the safety of transportation for high school students attending school-sponsored events by providing financial support to school districts. Specifically, the bill allocates $500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27 to the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) for the purpose of awarding grants to school districts. The bill stipulates that no grants will be awarded after June 30, 2027, ensuring a clear timeline for the funding initiative.

In addition to the funding provisions, the bill introduces new statutory language by creating sections 20.255 (2) (dx) and 115.369, which outline the grant program for safe transportation. The amendment to section 119.04 (1) includes the insertion of the new section 115.369, thereby integrating the grant program into existing educational statutes. This legislative effort reflects a commitment to improving student safety during transportation to school events, while also establishing a structured approach to funding and oversight through the DPI.