MS HB359

Establishes the Small School District Equipment, Maintenance and Infrastructure Grant Fund (DEMI Grant) to assist school districts with 4,500 or fewer enrolled students experiencing budget shortfalls for equipment purchases, facility maintenance, and infrastructure improvements.

Appropriates $2,000,000.00 for the initial year of the fund in fiscal year 2020, with unencumbered funds remaining in the account at year-end rather than reverting to the General Fund.

Limits each approved applicant to a one-time grant not exceeding $150,000.00, with the Department of Education administering the program and developing award criteria.

Requires the State Department of Education to consider whether applications increase cost efficiencies, reduce district debt, or establish other cost-saving measures that maintain safe and orderly school environments.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.