(1) From the state school aid fund money appropriated in section 11, there is allocated for 2025-2026 $10,000,000.00 for grants to districts to support the efforts of community violence intervention plans to reduce or prevent youth violence.

    (2) Districts must apply on a competitive basis for funding under this section in a form and manner determined by the department. The department shall coordinate with the office of community violence intervention in the department of health and human services to evaluate applications submitted under this section. Awards must be granted based on competitive criteria determined by the department and the department of health and human services, but must prioritize grants for local district plans that include comprehensive strategies with demonstrated external partnerships to support successful implementation.

    (3) Districts may use funding received under this section to contract with nonprofits, community-based organizations, subject matter experts, or other governmental entities to implement a plan to reduce or prevent youth violence. A plan to reduce or prevent youth violence implemented under this subsection must use evidence-based practices, include mentorship and community engagement strategies, and may include, but is not limited to, increased academic, counseling, health, and wrap-around services to youth.

    (4) The funds allocated in this section are a work project appropriation, and any unexpended funds for 2025-2026 are carried forward into 2026-2027. The purpose of the work project is to support the work of community violence intervention programs in districts and intermediate districts. The estimated completion date of the work project is September 30, 2030.

    (5) Notwithstanding section 17b, the department shall make payments under this section on a schedule determined by the department.