1. (1) The panel shall:

   1. (a) determine criteria for:

      1. (i) the allowed uses of capital project fund resources described in Sections 53F-10-301 and 53F-10-302 and the prioritization of proposed capital development projects, including the extent to which a proposed project:

         1. (A) eliminates risks to student life and safety through renewal or replacement;
         2. (B) enhances efficiency of use, including combining necessarily existent small schools, described in Section 53F-2-304;
         3. (C) addresses essential program growth and capacity;
         4. (D) provides a cost effective solution that is appropriate for the facility's need; and
         5. (E) comports with the school district's provision of matching funds and sufficient revenues for ongoing operation and maintenance;
   2. (b) evaluate capital development project proposals to ensure viability, efficiency, and adherence to education and construction standards;
   3. (c) prioritize capital development projects;
   4. (d) recommend that the state board distribute capital project funding to school districts;
   5. (e) if necessary based on the circumstances of the capital development project, in partnership with the division, oversee the capital development project; and
   6. (f) report to the state board regarding the panel's actions.

2. (2) The panel may:

   1. (a) determine that a technical assistance liaison is necessary for an eligible school district applying for capital project funding under this chapter to efficiently complete the project; and
   2. (b) facilitate engagement with the division or a willing school district partner having the required technical expertise in similar capital development projects.

Enacted by Chapter 407, 2022 General Session