Connecticut Senate Bill SB01116

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/15
• Refer: 3/20/15
• Report Pass: 4/29/15
• Refer: 5/1/15
• Report Pass: 5/7/15

Caption

An Act Concerning Expenditures For The Programs And Services Of The Department Of Education.

Impact

This legislation is poised to impact state laws by establishing a systematic review process for education programs. By requiring a comprehensive evaluation, it aims to ensure that funding is directed towards the most effective initiatives, potentially leading to improvements in educational outcomes. The bill will enable the State Board of Education to inform the appropriations committee on effective educational services, thereby influencing future budget allocations. This process may lead to the continuation or discontinuation of certain programs based on their assessed effectiveness.

Summary

SB01116, known as 'An Act Concerning Expenditures for the Programs and Services of the Department of Education', was introduced with the purpose of reviewing the various programs and services overseen by the Department of Education. The bill mandates the State Board of Education to conduct an evaluation of the effectiveness and benefits of these programs, and to prioritize funding based on their findings. The study aims to develop a data-driven approach to funding decisions in education, emphasizing accountability and better allocation of state resources.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB01116 appears to be supportive, as it aligns with broader efforts towards increased accountability in education spending. Legislators advocating for the bill believe it will promote efficiency in funding and truly assess which programs yield favorable results for students. However, there are concerns that this type of evaluation could also lead to cuts in funding for programs that may be beneficial but not easily measured in effectiveness terms, highlighting a tension between qualitative and quantitative assessments.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding this bill are likely to arise around the criteria used for evaluating the effectiveness of educational programs. Critics might argue that relying solely on quantitative metrics could overlook vital qualitative aspects of education that contribute to student success. Additionally, the bill emphasizes prioritizing funding based on specific evaluations, which raises concerns about equity in education and whether all programs providing essential services will receive fair consideration.