121st Maine Legislature
		Office of Fiscal and Program Review
		LD 1716
		Resolve, Regarding Participation in the Federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001
		LR 2453(01)
		Fiscal Note for Original Bill
		Sponsor: Sen. Brennan of Cumberland
		Committee: Education and Cultural Affairs
		Fiscal Note Required: Yes
Fiscal Note
Minor cost increase - General Fund
Fiscal Detail and Notes
	Since no state funds have been specifically appropriated in fiscal year 2003-04 and 2004-05 to implement the policies of the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, there is no fiscal impact as a result of prohibiting the use of state funds.  There may be some minor savings associated with state-funded personnel who may spend a portion of their time implementing the policies of the No Child Left Behind Act who would be prohibited from doing so if this measure were approved, but the amount can not be determined at this time.  The additional cost to the Department of Education to research the costs and benefits of not participating in the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and report its findings can be absorbed utilizing existing budgeted resources.
	Although this bill directs the Department of Education to research the costs and benefits of not participating in the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001,  the decision to opt out may result in a significant loss of federal funds.  The State expects to receive approximately $86.0 million in fiscal year 2003-04 and $88.0 million in fiscal year 2004-05 to support the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.  The State also expects to receive $43.0 million in federal funds associated with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in fiscal year 2003-04. Together, these federal funds support approximately 41 positions within the Department of Education.  Although other States are currently exploring the impact of opting out of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, none have done so at this time. The Federal Government has given no indication as to what actions it would take if States decide not to participate and whether other federally funded programs would be impacted.