Bill > A05203

This bill amends the education law to establish a reimbursement program for school districts facing financial challenges from civil action settlements or jury awards related to child sex offenses. Specifically, the bill allows school districts to seek state reimbursement for settlements or jury awards that exceed 5% of their total tax levy from the previous year, under certain conditions. To qualify for reimbursement, a school district must demonstrate that: (1) no insurance policy can be located or the settlement exceeds existing insurance policy limits, (2) a monetary judgment or settlement agreement has been issued, and (3) the settlement would create a substantial financial burden on the district. School districts will be required to annually report these expenditures to the commissioner of education, who in turn must provide an annual report to the governor and legislature about the program's administration and funding. The bill aims to provide financial relief to school districts that face significant financial strain from legal settlements related to specific types of civil actions, helping to protect their fiscal stability.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5203