Bill > HB0042

This bill amends Utah's education funding law to create an emergency funding mechanism for schools experiencing significant increases in English learner student enrollment. The bill defines "students learning English" as those scoring at the lowest level on English language proficiency assessments and establishes criteria for local education agencies (LEAs) to receive emergency funding. To qualify, a school must have experienced a 75% increase in English learner enrollment compared to its three-year average, with at least 30 new students. LEAs must submit detailed applications demonstrating financial need and insufficient existing resources. If approved, schools can use the emergency funds specifically for purposes like teacher training, reducing class sizes, hiring classroom aides, or providing resources tailored to English learners' needs. The funding will be drawn from nonlapsing funds in the existing at-risk weighted pupil unit, with a maximum annual limit of $500,000. The bill also modifies existing provisions related to weighted pupil units for at-risk and English learner students, allowing the state board more flexibility in allocating funds. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to provide targeted financial support to schools experiencing sudden and substantial increases in English learner student populations.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0042.html