AR SR9

Authorizes the introduction of a bill to amend public school employees' health insurance program funding effective January 1, 2023, replacing the fixed $150 per-month contribution rate with amounts established by House and Senate Education Committees through biennial adequacy review.

Establishes that the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education shall transfer $55,000,000 annually in twelve equal monthly installments to the Employee Benefits Division to fund state contributions to the health insurance program.

Increases per-student foundation funding from $7,349 to $7,413 for the 2022-2023 school year and each year thereafter, with minimum contribution rates increasing by the same percentage as foundation funding increases.

Repeals provisions directing general facilities and supplemental millage appropriations to bond debt assistance, redirecting those funds instead to the Employee Benefits Division for the health insurance program.

Declares an emergency to allow immediate implementation upon Governor approval, citing inadequacy of current funding and urgent need to maintain program viability and affordability for public school and state employees.