Bill > HB240

This bill, titled the Education Opportunity Account Act, establishes a program to provide financial assistance for eligible New Mexico children to pursue educational opportunities outside of traditional public schools. It creates "education opportunity accounts" managed by the state's public education department, into which funds are deposited to cover qualifying education expenses for "participants" (eligible children). These expenses can include tuition and fees at private elementary or secondary schools, tutoring, textbooks, assessments, summer and after-school programs, and public transportation. The bill outlines application procedures for parents and requirements for "education service providers" (qualified private schools that are not online schools) who receive payments from these accounts. It also establishes an "education opportunity review commission" to advise the department on qualifying expenses and provider eligibility, and mandates annual reporting to the legislature and governor on the program's operation and outcomes. Significant appropriations are made to fund the program and its administration, with provisions to prevent misuse of funds and ensure accountability.

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=240&year=26