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After‑school and summer learning grants funded by cannabis tax; moratorium on new approved independent schools remains
Summary
The committee heard that an after‑school and summer learning grant program was created and funded by cannabis sales and use tax under the 2023 budget, and that a moratorium on approval of new approved independent schools remains in session law pending further action by the General Assembly.
Belle St. James said Act 78 and subsequent budget adjustments created an after‑school and summer learning grant program funded by retail cannabis sales and use tax and administered by the Agency of Education. The program was authorized in the budget and took time to be implemented after cannabis program start-up delays; St. James noted the program received statutory adjustments in the budget adjustment act but remains funded by cannabis sales tax.
St. James also described a moratorium that the 2023 budget inserted on approval of new approved independent schools. That moratorium applies to any new approved independent school approvals until the General Assembly provides further direction, and it includes schools that serve only students on individualized education plans (therapeutic schools); the moratorium remains in session law and has not been repealed.
Why it matters: The after‑school and summer grants create a recurring program funded by a new revenue stream; the moratorium affects districts and private providers seeking approval as an approved independent school. St. James said the moratorium generated concern because it was broader than some House proposals and included therapeutic programs.
Next steps: The committee will receive updates on the grant program administration. St. James said work around session law cleanup and any future repeal or amendment of the moratorium will be a legislative choice for this session.
