Bill > H0338

This bill amends existing Idaho law to modify the Public School Facilities Cooperative Funding Program and the School District Facilities Fund. The bill expands the eligibility for school districts to apply for cooperative funding by including districts that have approved bond or facility levies but where the costs exceed the available levy funds. It updates the composition of the funding panel, replacing some board members with current state education officials. The bill changes the prioritization of how school district facilities funds can be used, now requiring payments for existing bonds issued before July 1, 2025, to be made first, followed by payments required under the Public School Facilities Cooperative Program. Additionally, the bill transfers $25 million from the bond levy equalization fund to the public school facilities cooperative fund. The changes aim to provide more flexible funding mechanisms for school districts to address facility safety, renovation, and construction needs. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause for the fund transfer provision allowing immediate implementation. The modifications are designed to help school districts more effectively manage their facilities and address safety concerns with greater financial support from the state.

Education

Education Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0338/