Bill > HB297

This bill amends Kentucky law to provide a comprehensive process for merging school districts, with a particular focus on situations involving financially struggling districts. The bill expands the existing merger provisions to allow any contiguous (neighboring) school districts to merge, removing previous restrictions that only applied to independent school districts. If school boards cannot agree on merger terms voluntarily, the process can be initiated through a voter referendum, where a majority vote from each district is required. If the school boards cannot develop a merger plan within 60 days after an election, the chief state school officer will develop the merger terms. Importantly, the bill introduces a new provision addressing financially insolvent school districts: if a district cannot meet its operating expenses and cannot negotiate a merger, the Kentucky Board of Education is now empowered to directly mandate a merger with a contiguous district and determine its specific terms. Additionally, the bill requires the Kentucky Board of Education to create administrative regulations establishing clear procedures for merging districts due to financial insolvency. This legislation aims to provide a structured approach to school district consolidation, particularly for districts experiencing financial difficulties.