Bill > H376

This bill establishes a temporary halt, known as a moratorium, on all new educational programs, requirements, or expenses imposed by the state on public schools for eighteen months or until December 31, 2016, whichever is later, aiming to prevent unfunded mandates that could negatively affect classroom instruction time. Additionally, it creates an educational mandate task force composed of legislative leaders, the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, and representatives from various educational associations, including the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents and the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, to examine existing state requirements for school districts and propose ways to simplify, combine, or remove any mandates or reporting obligations that are not fully funded by the state. This task force is required to hold a public hearing and submit its findings and recommendations to the legislature within twelve months of its first meeting.