§10002 State Uses of Funds

Summary

The Governor must spend 81.8% of the state’s grant on elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education and, if it applies, early childhood programs. First, the Governor must use that money to restore state funding so that for fiscal years 2009, 2010, and 2011 public K–12 funding via the state formulas is at least the larger of the 2008 or 2009 level. If the state had formula increases passed before October 1, 2008, those increases for 2010 and 2011 must be allowed to take effect, including any phase‑in for equity or adequacy. The Governor must also restore state support for public higher education (not counting student tuition and fees) for those same years to the larger of the 2008 or 2009 level. If the 81.8% is not enough to fully restore both K–12 and higher education, the money must be split between them based on how big each shortfall is. After that work is done, any leftover money goes to local school districts as subgrants, using their recent Title I shares. The Governor must use 18.2% of the grant for public safety and other government services. That can include help for schools and colleges and for modernizing, renovating, or repairing school and higher education buildings, including work that meets a green building rating. All types of colleges that meet the federal definition and stay eligible for Title IV must be considered for building funds. “Fiscal year” means whatever the State law says. Local school districts cannot use these funds for building work that would break state law.