DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 853 Engrossed 2020 Regular Session Turner
Abstract: Establishes the Digital Content and Curriculum Fund and provides for distribution of
monies in the fund by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to local public
school boards that meet certain criteria.
Proposed law establishes the Digital Content and Curriculum Fund as a special fund in the state
treasury. Provides that subject to appropriation, monies in the fund shall be made available by the
State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) for public schools to provide La.
classrooms with digital content and curriculum that directly impact student achievement and improve
performance.
Proposed law provides that subject to availability, monies in the fund shall be distributed at the
request of a school board and shall be based on the amount requested. Provides that a single request
shall not exceed $50,000.
Proposed law requires BESE to distribute monies from the fund on a first-come, first served basis
to school boards that meet the following criteria:
(1)Have technology infrastructure in place to facilitate usage of the digital content and
curriculum.
(2)Submit an explanation for how the distribution will be used to improve performance and
enhance student achievement. Proposed law provides certain requirements for the
explanation. Proposed law defines "school board" for purposes of proposed law as each city, parish, or other local
public school board and the governing authority of each charter school.
(Adds R.S. 39:100.41)