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HSB 157

A bill for an act relating to certain amounts of school district funding for programs for at-risk students, secondary students who attend alternative programs or alternative schools, or returning dropouts and dropout prevention.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HF 579 boosts school funding for at-risk students by raising the funding cap from 2.5% to 5%, enhancing support for dropouts and alternative education programs.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 579.
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Bill Summary · HSB 157

Summary of HSB 157 (Renumbered as HF 579)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 157, now known as HF 579, is a proposed legislative bill aimed at enhancing funding mechanisms for school districts to support programs for at-risk students, secondary students attending alternative programs or schools, and returning dropouts. The bill seeks to modify existing funding limits to provide greater financial flexibility for school districts in addressing dropout prevention and educational support for vulnerable student populations.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Funding Ratio: The bill proposes to increase the maximum allowable modified supplemental amount for school districts from 2.5% to 5% of the district's total regular program district cost. This change applies to fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2026.

  • Ballot Proposition Requirements: The bill outlines specific methods and requirements for placing the funding increase proposition on the ballot. It also details the process for rescinding the authorization if necessary.

  • Incremental Increases: If the proposed funding increase is approved through an election, the ratio will be limited to an increase of no more than 0.25% per fiscal year thereafter.

Affected Parties

  • School Districts: All school districts in the state will be affected by this bill, as it provides them with the opportunity to access increased funding for programs aimed at supporting at-risk students and preventing dropouts.

  • Students: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are at-risk students, those in alternative education programs, and returning dropouts, as the increased funding is intended to enhance educational resources and support services for these groups.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 11, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: February 12, 2025
  • Subcommittee Recommendation: February 13, 2025
  • Committee Vote: February 18, 2025 (22 Yeas, 0 Nays, 1 Excused)
  • Committee Report Approving Bill: February 18, 2025
  • Renumbered as HF 579: February 24, 2025

Conclusion

HSB 157 (HF 579) represents a significant step towards improving educational funding for at-risk populations within school districts. By increasing the allowable funding ratio and streamlining the process for ballot propositions, the bill aims to empower districts to better serve students who are at risk of dropping out or who require alternative educational pathways. The proposed changes are designed to foster a more supportive educational environment, ultimately aiming to reduce dropout rates and improve student outcomes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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