CA SB859

Establishes a continuous appropriation from the General Fund to the State School Fund for local control funding formula, basic aid, and related education programs without requiring annual budget appropriation.

Creates new Proposition 98 certification process with mandatory timelines: Director of Finance must certify the state's minimum funding obligation to schools and community colleges by August 15 each year, with public comment periods and 90-day window for judicial challenge.

Establishes Proposition 98 Cost Allocation Schedule allowing Director of Finance to credit excess appropriations (up to 1% of minimum obligation) against prior year deficiencies, with remaining outstanding balances automatically appropriated from General Fund.

Appropriates $100 million in 2018-19 fiscal year to reduce the 2009-10 fiscal year outstanding balance of minimum funding obligation, distributed to school districts (89.07%) and community college districts (10.93%).

Adds state funding to local educational agencies for full-day California state preschool programs to Proposition 98 minimum guarantee; removes requirements that cost-of-living adjustments depend on annual Budget Act appropriations.