A student education services account pilot program; and to provide an appropriation.
Impact
The implementation of this pilot program is projected to start in the 2025-26 school year and continue through the 2026-27 school year, during which it is expected to provide direct financial support to families, allowing them greater flexibility in managing their children's education expenses. An appropriation of $41,200,000 from the state general fund has been designated to ensure the program's funding and administration, which indicates significant state investment in education. This could result in a more robust educational framework that supports diverse learning paths and assists families in overcoming educational financial challenges.
Summary
House Bill 1590 introduces a pilot program for student education services accounts in North Dakota, aimed at providing financial assistance for authorized educational expenses for students enrolled in kindergarten through grade twelve. The program, managed by the Bank of North Dakota, will allow parents to contribute up to $2,000 per child each school year, with the state matching these deposits by 50%. This initiative seeks to enhance educational opportunities and reduce financial barriers for families when it comes to education-related costs, such as tuition for various educational programs, tutoring, and mental health services.
Contention
While the bill is designed to enhance education accessibility, it may attract some debate regarding its funding and operational mechanics. Questions could arise about the efficacy of a pilot program and whether it will adequately serve all student needs or focus disproportionately on certain types of education, primarily private or nontraditional education routes. Additionally, the cap on contributions may be seen as limiting, and discussions may be warranted on how the program will receive oversight to ensure it meets its intended goals without favoritism toward specific educational stakeholders.
The establishment of an educational reimbursement program; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide an appropriation; and to provide an effective date.
Matching grants for legal education and the workforce education advisory council; to provide for a transfer; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide loan authorization for the Mayville state university old main project; to provide for a report; to provide an exemption; to provide legislative intent; and to declare an emergency.
The student loan repayment program; to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for the behavioral health loan repayment program; and to declare an emergency.
The creation of an office of immigration and the immigration workforce loan program; to provide a transfer; to provide an appropriation; and to provide for a report.
A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for a pilot program for support services for youth at risk.