ME LD2226

Establishes new predicted transportation cost formula based on pupil density per mile of road, capping allocations at 105% of prior year's inflation-adjusted net transportation expenditures (effective FY 2027-28)

Creates variable funding weight (0.15-0.35) for economically disadvantaged students based on an index developed by a statewide education policy research institute, updated at least every 5 years

Increases special education prevalence threshold from 15% to 17% of resident pupils and eliminates the additional allocation for high-cost in-district special education placements

Implements cap on maintenance of effort special education adjustment at 80% of the difference between base allocation and prior year's actual expenditures, and eliminates midyear funding adjustments for unexpected out-of-district special education placement costs (effective FY 2027-28)

Updates regional adjustment calculation to use nationwide cost-of-living index and aligns with teacher salary matrix; adds income indicator to local contribution calculations for school administrative units