AR HB1097

Changes the public school employee health insurance contribution rate from a fixed $150 per month to an amount established by the House and Senate Education Committees through the biennial adequacy review process, effective January 1, 2023.

Replaces the state's minimum contribution of $61.00 per month with an amount established through the biennial adequacy review process, while maintaining the $55 million annual transfer to the Employee Benefits Division in 12 equal monthly installments.

Increases the per-student foundation funding amount from $7,349 to $7,413 for the 2022-2023 school year and each year thereafter.

Repeals provisions distributing funded general facilities and supplemental millage appropriations to the Employee Benefits Division, redirecting this funding mechanism.

Declares an emergency effective immediately upon the Governor's approval to address inadequate funding and sustainability issues in the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program.