Bill > HB0497

This bill amends existing law to ensure that the Minimum School Program, which is a foundational funding mechanism for public education, receives adequate funding even in fiscal years where student enrollment is projected to decline. Specifically, it modifies how appropriations are calculated by requiring that if student enrollment decreases, additional funds must be added to compensate for the projected reduction in funding that would normally occur due to fewer students. This additional funding is intended to maintain or increase the value of the "weighted pupil unit," which is a key factor in determining how much funding each student generates, and the amount will be determined by the Office of the Legislative Fiscal Analyst in consultation with other state education officials. The bill also specifies that this change will take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0497.html