Connecticut Senate Bill SB00252

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/22/21

Caption

An Act Permitting Regional School Districts To Carry-over Unexpended Funds.

Impact

The implications of SB00252 are significant for regional school districts' financial management. By permitting the carry-over of unexpended funds, the legislation fosters greater budget flexibility, allowing districts to allocate resources more effectively rather than returning unused funds to the state. This could lead to improved planning for educational programs and initiatives, ultimately benefiting students by ensuring that resources are available when needed. Such a measure aims to promote equity in education savings, allowing districts, especially those facing budget constraints, to make better use of their fiscal resources.

Summary

SB00252 aims to amend Chapter 164 of the general statutes to allow regional school districts to carry over unexpended funds from their educational budgets into a nonlapsing account. This provision enables school districts to save a portion of their budget, specifically up to two percent of the total appropriation for education from the previous fiscal year. The intent of the bill is to enhance fiscal responsibility and ensure that schools can utilize these funds for educational purposes in subsequent years.

Contention

While the bill presents a beneficial adjustment for school districts, it may provoke debates regarding the overall management of education funding and the appropriateness of allowing carry-over funds. Some legislators might express concerns over potential inequities that could arise if wealthier districts are better positioned to retain and utilize these funds compared to those with fewer resources. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the conditions under which the carry-over funds can be used, particularly ensuring that expenditures remain aligned with educational purposes, thus preventing misallocation of resources.