Connecticut Senate Bill SB00276

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/13
• Refer: 1/23/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Provision Of Social Work Services In School Districts.

Impact

If enacted, SB00276 would result in a substantial reorganization of existing educational and social service frameworks in Connecticut. The legislation is designed to reduce public costs by outsourcing social work services, which could lead to greater efficiency in service delivery. Supporters of the bill argue that community-based providers may offer more personalized services to students and families, leveraging local resources and expertise. However, this approach could raise concerns regarding oversight and continuity of care, as the outsourcing of essential support services may diminish the accountability traditionally held by educational institutions.

Summary

Bill SB00276 proposes a significant shift in how social work services are provided within Connecticut's school districts by transferring these responsibilities from local and regional boards of education to nonprofit, community-based providers. This change aims to relieve municipal expenses related to funding and managing social work within schools. By privatizing these services, the bill intends to streamline operations and possibly enhance the quality of social work offered in schools through specialized providers with local community ties.

Contention

The privatization of social work services is a contentious topic, with notable opposition stemming from concerns over the effectiveness of outsourced services versus those provided directly by schools. Critics worry that private entities may not prioritize student welfare as effectively as public entities and that the transition may lead to service disruptions during the transition period. Furthermore, there may be concerns over accountability and quality control, as community-based nonprofit organizations might lack the robust regulatory oversight that public school services are subjected to. The discussions around SB00276 highlight these divisions and underscore the complexities involved in reforming social service provisions within educational settings.