Under existing law, the Classified School Employee Summer Assistance Program allows local educational agencies (LEAs), defined as school districts or county offices of education, to participate in a system where classified employees can choose to withhold a portion of their monthly paycheck during the school year. This withheld amount is paid out over the summer recess. The State Department of Education provides funds to participate in LEAs within 30 days of a payment request. The program operates only if it receives funding through the annual Budget Act or another statute. Additionally, under the Joint Exercise of Powers Act, two or more public agencies can collaborate on shared powers through a formal agreement.
AB 378 amends the definition of an LEA to include joint powers authorities made up solely of school districts and county offices, allowing them and their classified employees to take part in the program.
(AB 378 amends Section 4500 of the Education Code.)