Bill > S2551

This bill amends existing education laws to address unfunded mandates and shifts certain costs to the state. Specifically, it requires the Department of Revenue to report on costs borne by school districts that are not fully funded by the state, making this report publicly accessible and available to lawmakers. The bill also establishes that starting July 1, 2026, the state will cover the costs of dual enrollment programs, which allow high school students to earn college credit, including specific programs like the Community College of Rhode Island's running start program and the New England Institute of Technology's early college completion programs. Additionally, beginning July 1, 2026, school districts will be allowed to use lower-cost curriculum programs that are similar to those approved by the state's Department of Education (RIDE), and districts can petition RIDE to use these cheaper options. Furthermore, for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, sending districts must be notified of enrollment timelines by April 1 and receive final rosters by June 15 for the following school year, with no changes allowed after that date unless both districts agree.

Budget and Finance

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