OR HB3519

Department of Education will oversee a cultural exchange program operated by a contracted public or private entity, enabling grade 12 students to stay with host families in different Oregon locations for one week exploring political, socioeconomic, and cultural differences

High school graduates who completed the in-state exchange become eligible for a national exchange, staying in another state for a week of similar cross-cultural experiences

Program must include at least 1,000 students from 60 schools across 60 school districts by July 1, 2028, with a report to legislative committees due by September 15, 2028

Creates the Cultural Exchange Program Fund in the State Treasury, funded by $2,150,000 transferred from the Statewide Education Initiatives Account for the 2025-2027 biennium, plus authorized gifts, grants, and donations

Takes effect July 1, 2025, under emergency declaration