HB0316

Creates a select committee to study and recalibrate the education resource block grant model and develop funding formulas for virtual schools and charter schools in Wyoming.

• Establishes a select committee on school finance recalibration consisting of 6 senate members (including 1 from minority party) and 6 house members (including 1 from minority party), with one co-chairman selected by each chamber's leadership. (Sec. 1(a), Sec. 1(b))
• Directs the select committee to study the education resource block grant model to determine if modifications are necessary to keep it cost-based in light of changing conditions, law modifications, and potential court directives. (Sec. 1(c), W.S. 21-13-309(t))
• Requires the select committee to study virtual education funding models in other states and develop recommendations for an equitable and predictable funding formula for Wyoming virtual schools. (Sec. 1(c))
• Requires the select committee to study charter school funding models in other states and develop recommendations for an equitable and predictable funding formula for Wyoming charter schools. (Sec. 1(c))
• Authorizes the select committee to work with professional consultant experts for model recalibration, with the legislative service office able to retain consultants subject to management council approval. (Sec. 1(c))
• Requires the select committee to report recommendations and any associated legislation to the legislature and permits the committee to introduce legislation. (Sec. 1(d), W.S. 28-8-104(e))
• Sets committee member appointments deadline of March 31, 2025, and establishes that the select committee shall remain in existence until February 9, 2026. (Sec. 1(e))
• Requires the department of education, other state agencies, school districts, and the school data advisory committee to provide information requested by the select committee or its consultants. (Sec. 1(f), W.S. 21-2-203(d))
• Appropriates $800,000 from the general fund to the legislative service office for consultant contracts to fund the model recalibration study through June 30, 2026.