HB 1292 Summary

• Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must publish by January 1st a list of school districts with fewer than 350 students and a consolidation list of districts below 350 students for two consecutive school years.

• School districts on the consolidation list may voluntarily submit petitions by March 1st to consolidate with or be annexed to other districts, with state board approval required and consolidation effective July 1st.

• Districts on the consolidation list that do not submit voluntary petitions or receive approval shall be administratively consolidated by the state board by May 1st, effective July 1st.

• Administrative consolidations must result in districts with average daily attendance of at least 350 students, cannot require closure of school facilities, must not hamper desegregation efforts, and may have only one superintendent.

• State auditor shall conduct comprehensive financial reviews of consolidated or annexed districts, with the department of education gaining oversight authority over fiscal matters and debt obligations requiring preapproval by the commissioner of education.