j_cdc_2018a_2018-02-06t08:02:43z0 Hearing Summary

The committee was called to order. A quorum was present.  Representative Becker initiated a discussion about potential committee legislation concerning a requirement that an application for a "Building Excellent Schools Today Act" grant of financial assistance for public school capital construction include a plan for the future use or disposition of any existing public school facility that the applicant will stop using for its current use if it receives the grant.  Committee members received copies of the draft bill (Attachment A).  Discussion ensued regarding how financially troubled school districts would meet the requirements of the legislation, and the impact of the legislation on the level of funding for the grant program.  Representative Becker responded to questions regarding feedback he has received from school districts on the potential legislation, and the scope of the problem being addressed.  Representative Becker responded to further questions regarding the impact of complying with the legislation on the likelihood that a school district will receive a grant.  Ms. Kori Donaldson, Legislative Council Staff, addressed questions about the timeline for introducing the draft bill as committee legislation.