This bill amends existing laws related to K-12 public school finance in Wyoming, specifically increasing the allowable education square footage used to calculate routine and major maintenance for school districts. The amendments to W.S. 21-13-309 and W.S. 21-15-109 remove previous limitations on the inclusion of educational space capacity in gross square footage computations. Notably, the bill eliminates the previous cap of one hundred fifteen percent (115%) of the standard space level for the 2025-2026 school year, allowing for a new cap of one hundred thirty-five percent (135%) of the standard space level. This change aims to provide more flexibility in funding calculations for school maintenance and operations.

Additionally, the bill appropriates a total of $43.7 million from the public school foundation program account for major and routine maintenance payments to school districts, effective from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2028. Specifically, $31.9 million is allocated for major maintenance payments, while $11.8 million is designated for routine maintenance payments. These appropriations are intended to support school districts in meeting the increased square footage allowances established by the bill, ensuring that they have the necessary resources for maintaining educational facilities. The act is set to take effect immediately upon completion of the legislative process.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0087 v0.4: 21-13-309, 21-15-109