Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB271

Introduced
5/17/23  
Refer
5/17/23  
Report Pass
11/8/23  
Refer
11/8/23  

Caption

A grant program for recovery high schools and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The bill mandates the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to distribute annual grants of $500,000 to eligible recovery high schools. This funding is designated for hiring staff, facility expenses, drug testing supplies, and developing activities that support sober living among students. The grants will be contingent upon schools submitting a range of reporting metrics, including demographic data of students and operational audits, which could contribute to enhancing accountability within the school’s environment.

Summary

Assembly Bill 271 establishes a grant program specifically targeting recovery high schools, which are designed to serve students recovering from substance use disorders or coexisting mental health conditions. The bill defines eligibility criteria for these schools, ensuring they provide a supportive educational environment distinct from regular public, private, or tribal schools. In order to qualify for grants under this new program, recovery high schools must meet specific governance requirements, enrollment limits, and operational stipulations, aiming to foster a tailored recovery approach in education.

Contention

Discussion around AB271 reveals some contention regarding the funding and operational structure of recovery high schools. Supporters argue that dedicated funding can lead to better recovery outcomes for at-risk youth, helping them reintegrate into society with a stronger foundation. However, some critics express concerns over the stringent eligibility criteria which may limit the recovery resources available to some students. Additionally, questions about the long-term sustainability of these schools, particularly under financial constraints, remain a point of debate among stakeholders in the education and health sectors.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB770

Farm to fork grants, farm to school grants, matching funds for the federal farm to school program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB804

Farm to fork grants, farm to school grants, matching funds for the federal farm to school program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI HB2449

Relating to support programs in recovery schools.

WI SB41

School safety grants and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB825

A grant program to support parent and guardian volunteer programs in schools, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB834

A grant program to support parent and guardian volunteer programs in schools, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI LD1753

An Act to Establish the Upper St. John Valley Recovery High School Program

WI AB40

School safety grants and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB835

Grants for students enrolled in teacher education programs, school district revenue limits, the reimbursement rate for special education costs, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB828

Grants for students enrolled in teacher education programs, school district revenue limits, the reimbursement rate for special education costs, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

HI HB881

Relating To Public Utilities.

HI HB881

Relating To Public Utilities.

CA AB745

An act to add Article 6.

NJ A3806

Requires DCA to approve credentialing entity to develop and administer voluntary recovery residence certification program.

NJ S3479

Requires DCA to approve credentialing entity to develop and administer voluntary recovery residence certification program.

VA SB270

Recovery residences; regulations.

MI HB5302

Health: substance use disorder prevention; competitive grant program to provide grants for recovery community organizations; modify. Amends sec. 273b of 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1273b).

VA HB931

Recovery residences; regulations.