Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1151

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/26
• Refer: 3/19/26
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

An Act to amend 20.255 (2) (b), 115.882 and 118.40 (2r) (e) 2p. a. of the statutes; Relating to: general equalization aids, the reimbursement rate for special education costs, excluding special education reimbursement from certain per pupil payments, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The proposed changes are significant for the fiscal health of school districts, as they address the reimbursement rate for special education services, particularly increasing the state's contributions from a fluctuating rate to a more predictable structure. Specifically, the reimbursement rate for eligible costs will rise to a set 60 percent following the full payment of certain hospital and convalescent home costs. Furthermore, the bill aims to ensure special education funding does not negatively affect per pupil payment calculations under existing state programs, which could have implications for overall educational funding distribution.

Summary

Senate Bill 1151 aims to amend funding related to special education and reimbursement rates for educational services across Wisconsin. The bill proposes an increase in funding disbursed to school districts through state aid via the equalization formula by approximately $445.9 million for the 2026-27 school year. Additionally, it modifies how the state reimburses various educational entities, including operators of independent charter schools and educational service agencies, for costs associated with special education services and programs for school-age parents.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SB1151 highlights concerns over potential impacts on local school finance systems. Supporters of the bill argue that increasing funding for special education and ensuring appropriate reimbursement rates are crucial for providing necessary services to students with disabilities. However, critics may raise concerns over how alterations to reimbursement calculations could affect overall funding for public education, particularly with exclusions specified for certain per pupil payment programs. Key points of contention include the fairness and equity of distributed funding among different educational institutions and programs.