H.B. 609 Summary

• Authorizes supplemental categorical funding for remote schools to support additional instructional and support staff, in addition to weighted student formula allocations.

• Defines "remote school" as a public high school (excluding charter schools) located at least one hour's drive from the next nearest public high school, or located on Lanai, Molokai, or Niihau; includes combined schools with elementary or lower levels.

• Appropriates unspecified sum from general revenues for fiscal years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to be expended by the Department of Education.

• Addresses funding disadvantages faced by small, remote schools under the weighted student formula that have resulted in teacher loss and inability to offer minimum course requirements for graduation.

• Effective July 1, 2050.