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HD 3219

An Act increasing the Commonwealth's share of the education foundation budget

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Margaret Scarsdale and 1 co-sponsor

Increases state's share of education foundation budget from 17.5% to 25% over 3 years, providing $1.2B more annual funding to reduce property tax burden on local districts.

Senate concurred
0
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Bill Summary · HD 3219

Bill Summary: HD 3219 - An Act increasing the Commonwealth's share of the education foundation budget

Overview

HD 3219 is a proposed bill that seeks to increase the Commonwealth's (state's) financial contribution towards the education foundation budget in Massachusetts. The foundation budget is the minimum amount of funding required per student to provide an adequate education, as determined by the state.

Key Provisions

  • Increases the state's share of the education foundation budget from the current 17.5% to 25% over a 3-year period:
    • Year 1: 20% state share
    • Year 2: 22.5% state share
    • Year 3 and beyond: 25% state share
  • The remaining 75% of the foundation budget would continue to be funded through local property taxes and other local revenue sources.
  • Adjusts the formula used to calculate the foundation budget to account for inflation and rising education costs.
  • Requires the state to fully fund its 25% share of the foundation budget going forward.

Impact

  • This bill aims to provide more state funding to school districts to help cover rising education costs and reduce the burden on local property taxpayers.
  • It is estimated that this change would result in an additional $1.2 billion in annual state education funding by Year 3.
  • Low-income and rural school districts that rely more heavily on state aid are expected to benefit the most from this increased investment.
  • The state would need to appropriate additional funds in its annual budget to meet the 25% foundation budget commitment.

Timeline

  • The 20% state share would take effect in the 2026-2027 school year.
  • The 22.5% state share would be implemented in 2027-2028.
  • The 25% state share would be in place starting in the 2028-2029 school year and continue in subsequent years.

Overall, HD 3219 represents a significant increase in the Commonwealth's financial commitment to public education, with the goal of ensuring more equitable and adequate funding for school districts across Massachusetts.

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

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