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SC H5156

SC H5156
Fiscal Responsibility in K-12 Technology Planning Act


summary

Introduced
02/11/2026
In Committee
02/11/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

126th General Assembly

Bill Summary

Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Enacting The "fiscal Responsibility In K-12 Technology Planning Act" By Adding Article 5 To Chapter 23, Title 59 So As To Require Local Education Agencies To Evaluate And Consider Total Ownership Costs And Flexibility For Innovation And Accessibility When Acquiring Technology, To Mandate Annual Reporting Of School Technology Device Break/fix Rates And Related Data, And To Direct The State Board Of Education To Compile And Report Statewide Findings, Promulgate Related Regulations, And Provide Guidance And Support To School Districts In The Implementation Of The Provisions Of This Act, Among Other Things.

AI Summary

This bill, titled the "Fiscal Responsibility in K-12 Technology Planning Act," mandates that local education agencies (LEAs), which include school districts and charter school authorizers, must consider the "total cost of ownership assessment" when acquiring technology for schools. This assessment includes not just the initial purchase price but also costs for setup, operation, maintenance, repairs, training, and any potential loss of value or disruption. LEAs must also evaluate how flexible the technology is for future innovation and accessibility, and its security features. Furthermore, LEAs are required to report annually on their "break/fix rate," which is the percentage of school technology devices that malfunction or break before their expected lifespan, along with other data on device repairs and costs. The State Board of Education will then compile and report statewide findings on these break/fix rates, offer recommendations to reduce them, and create regulations and provide support to help school districts implement these new requirements, with the act becoming effective for the 2027-2028 school year.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (12)

Last Action

Referred to Committee on Education and Public Works (on 02/11/2026)

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