The "Support for Neglected Schools Act" aims to amend section 18-9D-15 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to improve funding and support for school facilities statewide. The bill enhances the role of the School Building Authority in managing state and federal funds for school construction and major improvements, with specific allocations including a maximum of 10% for statewide educational projects, 2% for emergency funds, and 5% for multiuse vocational-technical education facilities. It introduces a new funding application process for county boards, contingent on bond levies, and stipulates that unspent funds must be utilized within three years or forfeited, with a possible two-year extension. Public charter schools are also granted the ability to apply for funding under certain conditions.

Additionally, the bill outlines provisions for the closure of public charter schools that have received School Building Authority funding, requiring the return of the building to the authorizer or the state if necessary. It mandates the Authority to create a formula to assess the value of improvements made with its funds. The act further empowers Local School Improvement Councils (LSIC) to apply for funding to address deferred maintenance, provided that the costs exceed 25% of the estimated replacement cost as determined by the School Building Authority. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline funding processes and ensure that school facilities adequately meet the educational needs of students in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-9D-15