NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates/Conflicts with/Companion to/Relates to HB28, HB30, HB83, HB112, SB39, SB62, SB165, SM808 Duplicates SB208.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

State Department of Public Education (SDE)

SUMMARY

     Synopsis of SFC Amendment

The Senate Finance Committee amendment strikes the appropriations from the bill.

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 208 requires SDE design and implement a statewide reading initiative to improve reading proficiency in New Mexico, appropriates $200.0 to the department for the design of the initiative, creates the Public School Reading Proficiency Fund, and appropriates $1,000.0 to the fund.

Significant Issues

The bill requires that the reading initiative be based on quality, research-based reading programs shown to improve reading proficiency. The initiative should also include appropriate professional development, rewards to certified instructors that improve student reading and shall allow for extra time in the student's day for implementation of reading programs.

SDE shall work with national experts, local school district personnel, parents and other interested persons in the design of the reading initiative.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

Senate Bill 208 appropriates $200.0 from the general fund to SDE for expenditure in fiscal year 2001 and 2002 for the design of a statewide reading initiative and long-range plan for reading improvement. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund.

This bill also creates the Public School Reading Proficiency Fund, appropriates $1,000.0 to the fund that shall be administered by SDE. Money in the fund will be used to distribute awards to local schools that implement innovative, research-based reading programs. The fund shall consist of appropriations, gifts, grants and donations and money in the fund is non-reverting.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

SDE indicates that current staff can handle this project; however, if a significant amount of other literacy bills are enacted, the department would require a reading specialist.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

Other literacy related bills: HB28, HB30, HB83, HB112, SB39, SB62, SB165 and SM808. This bill duplicates HB241.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

This bill implements a recommendation of the Education Initiatives and Accountability Task Force.

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