This bill amends the Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act to allow for state-funded expenses for categorical programs, such as special education, career and technical education, pre-kindergarten programs, and support for English learners. The bill specifies the criteria for allocating funds and establishes the amount of the regionalization bonus and state support for English learners. If the approved costs exceed the available funding, the funds will be prorated among eligible recipients.

Additionally, the bill provides state support for school resource officers (SROs) at public middle and high schools. Districts or municipalities that employ SROs will receive reimbursement for one-half of the cost of salaries and benefits for qualifying positions. The bill also establishes requirements for the assignment of SROs based on school enrollment. Schools that eliminate existing SRO positions and create new positions will not be eligible for reimbursement. The bill also provides for the funding of categorical programs through a transition plan. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
786: 16-7.2-6