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Bill > LD1740
ME LD1740
ME LD1740An Act to Establish the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics Education Matching Grant Program
summary
Introduced
04/22/2025
04/22/2025
In Committee
04/22/2025
04/22/2025
Crossed Over
06/09/2025
06/09/2025
Passed
06/09/2025
06/09/2025
Dead
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
132nd Legislature
Bill Summary
This bill establishes the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics Education Matching Grant Program within the Department of Education to provide grant funding to schools, museums and other entities that apply to support programs that offer hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics for students in this State in kindergarten to grade 12. Applicants for the grant program are required to demonstrate ability to provide matching funds in the amount of 33% of the grant requested. The bill provides methods by which the matching fund requirement can be satisfied and outlines the types of expenses that a grant recipient can cover with the grant funds. The bill outlines criteria that the department must apply when awarding grants. The department is required to develop further criteria and procedures for eligibility, the application process, applicant selection and awarding grants. The department is authorized to adopt routine technical rules to implement the program. The bill provides a nonlapsing appropriation in the amount of $3,000,000 to the program for fiscal year 2025-26, any unused portion of which must be carried forward to fiscal year 2026-27.
AI Summary
This bill establishes the Maine Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Education Matching Grant Program within the Department of Education to support hands-on learning experiences for K-12 students. The program will provide grants to various entities including schools, libraries, museums, community groups, and nonprofit organizations for STEAM-related activities and programs. Applicants must match 33% of the grant amount through documented funds, existing resources, or sponsorships. The department will prioritize newly established programs and those in areas of greater economic need, with additional considerations for serving underrepresented populations and students in free or reduced-price lunch programs. Grant funds can be used for team operations, registration fees, materials, transportation, scholarships, coaching stipends, and professional development. Recipients must submit reports detailing budget use, program results, and basic participant demographics. The bill includes a one-time appropriation of $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2025-26, with unused funds to be carried forward to the following fiscal year. The program aims to enhance STEAM education opportunities across Maine by supporting both competitive and non-competitive learning experiences in fields like robotics, engineering, arts, and innovation.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (8)
Dan Sayre (D)*,
Chip Curry (D),
Jack Ducharme (R),
Traci Gere (D),
Amy Kuhn (D),
Bob Nutting (R),
Tiffany Roberts (D),
Holly Sargent (D),
Last Action
CARRIED OVER, in the same posture, to any special or regular session of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order SP 800. (on 06/25/2025)
bill text
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1740&snum=132 |
| House: C-A (H-518) | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP1158&item=2&snum=132 |
| Fiscal Note: C-A (H-518) | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_132nd/fiscalpdfs/FN174002.pdf |
| Fiscal Note: Text | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_132nd/fiscalpdfs/FN174001.pdf |
| BillText | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP1158&item=1&snum=132 |
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