Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2575

Introduced

3/10/22

Refer

3/10/22

Caption

State Aid

Impact

The bill's provisions aim to establish a clearer enforcement mechanism for financial obligations between LEAs. By requiring the commissioner to supervise the withholding of funds, the legislation is expected to strengthen adherence to established rules and regulations. It sets a precedent for more stringent financial oversight in the education sector, which could enhance operational efficiency and accountability among LEAs, as well as potentially improve funding outcomes for students in need of transitional support between districts.

Summary

Bill S2575, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, amends the General Laws concerning State Aid, particularly focusing on the processes surrounding the withholding of funds from local education agencies (LEAs) in cases of legal violations or nonpayment of tuition. The legislation empowers the commissioner of elementary and secondary education to order the withholding of state funds for any LEA found in violation of applicable laws or regulations, or for not paying owed tuition for student transfers. This is intended to ensure compliance and accountability among various educational agencies.

Contention

Notably, the bill may spark debate regarding the balance of power between state and local education authorities. Critics might argue that the expanded authority of the commissioner to withhold funds could lead to undue penalties on local entities and disrupt educational services. Proponents, however, would contend that ensuring timely payments and adherence to regulations is vital for the state's educational ecosystem. The effectiveness and fairness of the enforcement processes could also be called into question during legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0331

Requires the department of elementary and secondary education to propose, by October 1, 2025, funding alternatives to increase state aid for districts with high poverty, with recommendations on funding levels and their impacts.

RI H5398

Revises the calculation for the student success factor in the education-aid formula by adding an additional multiplier.

RI S0192

Requires a review by the department of elementary and secondary education of the formula components used to compute the aid needed to support high need students.

RI H5979

Requires a review by the department of elementary and secondary education of the formula components used to compute the aid needed to support high need students.

RI S2346

Provides local education agencies (LEAs) hiring site-based specialists for reading and math to receive state reimbursement based on enrollment and specific guidelines.

RI S0259

Provides that a student's enrollment in Medicaid would be included in calculating and determining the student success factor for use in the foundation education-aid formula.

RI H5751

Provides that a student's enrollment in Medicaid would be included in calculating and determining the student success factor for use in the foundation education-aid formula.

RI H6003

Provides for increases or decreases in the amount of foundation level school support that a community would receive, based upon a community's ability to meet and surpass its minimum low- and moderate-income housing requirements.

RI H7397

Provides that the permanent foundation educational aid program would provide state funding for school-based mental health services pursuant to specified conditions.

RI S2558

Adds multilingual learners into the determination of high-need students and provides a student success factor of twenty-five percent (25%) of the core instruction per-pupil amount and repeals the categorical funding for these students.