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F I S C A L I M P A C T R E P O R T

SPONSOR:	Nava		DATE TYPED:	01/26/02		HB
SHORT TITLE:		Statewide Public Service Learning Program				SB	77
					ANALYST:		Baca

APPROPRIATION

Appropriation Contained

Estimated Additional Impact

Recurring

or Non-Rec

Fund

Affected

FY02

FY03

FY02

FY03

$350.0

Recurring

General Fund

(Parenthesis) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

State Department of Education (SDE)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 77l provides $350.0 from the general fund to the State Department of Education for a service learning program in the public school that academic curricula and other educational initiatives, so that students, including students with disabilities, are provided public service learning opportunities. The department is required to collaborate with the Commission on Higher Education to ensure involvement of postsecondary institutions.

Significant Issues

The SDE states that the program is currently being implemented in some school districts. The need for expansion is evidenced by student needs and the program’s success. Because of limited resources, not all New Mexico students are able to share in the benefits of the Service Learning programs offered by participating agencies.

The benefits of applying students’ knowledge and skills in the context of community service brings needed relevance to the academic curriculum and can be an important factor for increasing student achievement levels and decreasing the rate of high school dropouts. As such, an expansion of Service Learning opportunities can constitute a significant contribution to statewide school reform efforts.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $350.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any expended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY2003 shall revert to the general fund.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

SDE states that additional staff will be needed to administer the program expansion. However, no specifics regarding the number of staff are provided.

The SDE analysis shows the appropriation as non-recurring. However, the analysis narrative strongly suggests the program is on-going and continuing appropriations will be required.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

1. How are existing programs being funded ?

2. How many students are currently particpating in program ? From how many school districts ?

3. How many additional students and school districts may become participants if this bill is

funded ?

LB/ar