3. A description of the existing policies and new policies included in the proposed rule and an analysis of policy alternatives.
2015 Wisconsin Act 55 created the Special Needs Scholarship Program, which first became effective in the 2016-17 school year. Utilizing its authority under s. 115.7915 (10), Stats., the Department promulgated emergency rules for the Program (Emergency Rule 1619) that are currently in effect. CHR 16-005 is the permanent rule that implements the Program and is currently pending at the time of the filing of this scope statement. Based on feedback from participating schools and school districts and items identified during the first year implementation of the Program, modifications to the current rule are needed to better assist schools and the Department in the administration of the Program. Without a rule, the Department will continue to administer the Program according to the emergency rules that are currently in effect. 4. The statutory authority for the proposed rule.
Under s. 115.7915 (10), Stats., the Department is required to promulgate rules to implement and administer the Special Needs Scholarship Program, including rules relating to: (a) eligibility and participation of eligible schools; (b) calculation and distribution of scholarships; and (c) application and approval procedures for students and eligible schools. 5. An estimate of the amount of time agency employees will spend developing the proposed rule and of other resources needed to develop the rule.
The amount of time needed for rule development by Department staff and the amount of other resources necessary are minimal.
6. A description of all of the entities that will be affected by the proposed rule.
The proposed rule will impact local education agencies and eligible private schools participating in the Special Needs Scholarship Program.
7. A summary and preliminary comparison of any existing or proposed federal regulation that addresses or is intended to address the activities to be regulated by the proposed rule.
N/A
8. Anticipated economic impact of implementing the rule (note if the rule is likely to have a significant economic impact on small businesses).
The proposed rules will have no significant economic impact on small businesses, as defined in s. 227.114 (1), Stats. Contact information:
Carl Bryan
Policy and Budget Team
(608) 267-9127
