An Act To Establish A Grant Program To Provide For Statewide And Equitable Access To Experiential Science, Technology, Engineering And Mathematics Competition Programs

LD 823 establishes a grant program administered by the Maine Technology Institute to fund statewide, hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) competition programs for high school students. The bill requires grant recipients to partner with national STEM programs, broaden participation for underrepresented students (including those from rural areas, Title I schools, and diverse backgrounds), and partner with the University of Maine System. Organizations receiving grants must provide matching funds and report measurable outcomes, ensuring programs reach all 16 counties and all school types (public, private, homeschool). The program aims to increase equitable access to STEM competitions and college opportunities for Maine high school students.