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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2025-04-03

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill creates a $25 million Public School Disaster Preparedness Fund administered by the Department of Public Instruction to help schools in high-risk natural disaster areas improve or replace building structures to reduce damage from severe weather. Schools apply through a formal process, with the State Board of Education approving projects that meet established preparedness standards, and must report annually on fund usage and progress.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this fund protects school infrastructure and students in disaster-prone areas by funding preventive improvements before disasters occur, potentially saving money on emergency repairs and reducing disruptions to education.
• •They contend the fund addresses a critical gap in school safety and resilience, particularly for rural or underserved districts that lack resources for these costly upgrades on their own.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may question whether a one-time $25 million allocation is sufficient for statewide needs, note that the unanimous vote requirement for approvals could slow the process or limit funding distribution, and raise concerns about whether disaster preparedness funding competes with other pressing education priorities like teacher pay and classroom resources.