North Carolina Lawmakers Push for Fiscal Responsibility in Technology Purchases for Schools
North Carolina legislators are advancing a bill aimed at mandating public schools, community colleges, and universities to assess long-term costs associated with technology purchases. Senate Bill 449, introduced by Sen. Michael Lee, R-New Hanover, seeks to ensure fiscal responsibility and efficient technology use throughout the state’s education system.
The proposed legislation requires educational institutions to report on the "break/fix rate," which refers to the percentage of technology devices that malfunction and require repairs not covered by insurance. Schools would also need to evaluate the resale value of their devices. The intent, Lee emphasized, is to enhance stewardship of existing funds rather than mandate new spending.
However, concerns were raised during committee discussions. Rep. Julie von Haefen, D-Wake, cautioned that the bill could impose additional burdens on schools already facing cuts in technology staff. She highlighted the necessity of providing resources for effective implementation.
Lee countered these concerns by asserting that the bill focuses on better resource management rather than additional expenditures. The reporting requirements would need to begin by the 2025-2026 academic year, with institutions responsible for detailing their technology inventory, repair rates, and associated costs to the State Board of Education. The board would subsequently compile this information and submit recommendations to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee.
"This bill is essential for preparing our schools for a digital future," Lee remarked, noting the shifting landscape as traditional textbooks are phased out. "The cheapest option today is not always the most cost-effective in the long run." If passed, the bill would take effect immediately, marking a significant move towards responsible technology management in education across North Carolina.
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