NC H769

Freezes Opportunity Scholarship Program funding at the 2018-2019 fiscal year level of $54,840,000 annually, eliminating the previously planned annual $10 million increases through 2027-2028.

Redirects $10 million in recurring funds annually from the 2019-2021 biennium to the Department of Public Instruction for local school systems to hire additional school-based personnel with direct impact on student outcomes.

Transfers unexpended Opportunity Scholarship Grant Fund Reserve balances to the Public School Building Capital Fund instead of reverting to the General Fund, to be allocated for school construction projects based on average daily membership.

Requires the Department of Public Instruction to report beginning March 15, 2020, and annually thereafter, to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee on how allocated funds are used by local school administrative units.

Sections 1, 2, 3, and 5 become effective July 1, 2019; Section 4 becomes effective June 30, 2019.