SJR34 Summary

• Creates a Joint Interim Study Commission on Responsible Technology Purchases by Public Education to examine short-term and long-term fiscal impacts of mass technology purchases by public schools and higher education institutions.

• Commission membership includes 11 members: State Superintendent of Education, Chancellor of Alabama Community College System, Executive Director of Alabama Commission on Higher Education, chairs of relevant Senate and House committees, minority leaders, State Finance Director, and an educational hardware technology specialist appointed by the Lieutenant Governor.

• Commission shall consider establishing a total cost of ownership (TCO) matrix or calculator for K-12 and higher education institutions, evaluating factors including device resale value, leasing options, end-of-life buyback options, sustainability plans, environmental disposal impacts, and data privacy assurances.

• Legislative members receive compensation, per diem, and travel expenses under Alabama Constitution Amendment 871; other members may be reimbursed for necessary meeting expenses by their respective appointing authorities.

• Commission must report findings and proposed legislation to the Legislature and publish final report on the Legislature's website no later than January 1, 2023, at which time the commission shall dissolve.