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Bill

HB 840

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in reimbursements by Commonwealth and between school districts, further providing for Targeted Industry Cluster Certificate Scholarship Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Borowski and 14 co-sponsors

HB 840 modifies Pennsylvania school reimbursement formulas to adjust funding mechanisms for the Targeted Industry Cluster Certificate Scholarship Program supporting vocational credentials.

Referred to Education
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Bill Summary · HB 840

Legislative bill overview

HB 840 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to modify reimbursement procedures between the Commonwealth and school districts, with specific changes to the Targeted Industry Cluster Certificate Scholarship Program. The bill appears to adjust how funding flows for vocational/technical certificate programs that prepare students for in-demand industries. The exact modifications are not detailed in the bill summary provided, but the focus is on financial mechanics rather than programmatic changes.

Why is this important

The Targeted Industry Cluster Certificate Scholarship Program supports students pursuing credentials in high-demand fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology—often providing alternatives to traditional four-year college paths. How the Commonwealth reimburses schools for these programs directly affects program sustainability, student access, and whether districts can afford to offer certificates in their communities. Reimbursement changes can either expand opportunity or create financial pressures that reduce offerings.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding adequacy: Whether reimbursement rates are sufficient for districts to maintain quality programming or if changes reduce overall support
  • District equity: How reimbursement formula changes might affect wealthier versus under-resourced districts differently
  • Administrative complexity: New reimbursement procedures could create compliance burdens or accounting challenges for school districts

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

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