Assurance Services • Published 8/17/2020 Can State Funds Be Used to Pay for Distance Learning Expenditures?

As school systems have prepared for this upcoming year, they are faced with many challenges due to the pandemic and social distancing requirements. Many have opted to continue distance learning, whether full-time or part-time, for the health and safety of teachers and students. One of the larger challenges experienced with distance learning is that not every family can meet the financial obligations of equipment purchases and internet access. As a result, many school systems are seeking ways to ensure every child has the necessary technology and access to the internet. 

Consideration as to whether a school system can legally expend state funds to provide this technology to students and families was addressed in Attorney General Opinion #20-0077, released on July 30, 2020 regarding this matter. The opinion can be found at https://www.ag.state.la.us/Opinions. In the search opinions box type 20-0077.