S.B. 240 Summary

• Establishes a shade and fruit tree program in the Department of Education beginning January 1, 2024 to increase tree canopy on school campuses and reduce effects of climate change on students.

• Authorizes the program to utilize existing agriculture and natural resource programs in schools to educate students and propagate native shade trees and fruit trees for planting across all Department schools.

• Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to administer the shade and fruit tree program (specific amount not included in bill text).

• Appropriates funds to establish and hire one full-time arborist position for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to manage the tree inventory and oversee expansion of tree canopy statewide.

• Takes effect July 1, 2023, with the shade and fruit tree program establishment provisions taking effect January 1, 2024.