MS HB533

Establishes the Small School District Equipment, Maintenance and Infrastructure Grant Fund (DEMI Grant) to provide grants to school districts with 4,500 or fewer enrolled students experiencing budget shortfalls.

Appropriates $2,000,000 for the fund's initial establishment in fiscal year 2018, with remaining unencumbered funds to carry over rather than lapse into the General Fund.

Limits individual grants to a one-time award not exceeding $150,000 per eligible school district for equipment purchases, physical plant maintenance, and infrastructure improvements.

Designates the State Department of Education to administer the fund, develop approval criteria, and evaluate applications based on cost efficiencies, debt reduction, and safety improvements for students and staff.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.