Louisiana House Bill HB1173

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/12
• Refer: 4/4/12
• Report Pass: 5/2/12
• Engrossed: 5/8/12
• Refer: 5/9/12
• Report Pass: 5/21/12
• Enrolled: 5/24/12
• Chaptered: 5/31/12
• Passed: 5/31/12

Caption

Provides relative to the state special schools

Impact

One of the key impacts of HB 1173 is the establishment of a clearer administrative structure for the Special School District. The bill provides that the district will be governed by the state superintendent of education, who will oversee the allocation of resources and administrative duties, thus centralizing authority. This change is expected to enhance coordination between various educational services and institutions, leading to more effective delivery of educational programs for students with exceptional needs. Additionally, the bill allows for interagency agreements that facilitate collaboration across public agencies, broadening access to necessary services for eligible students.

Summary

House Bill 1173 seeks to amend and reenact various provisions related to special education within the state of Louisiana. The bill primarily addresses the establishment, administration, and operational protocols for Louisiana's special schools, which serve students with disabilities, such as the Louisiana School for the Deaf and the Louisiana Schools for the Visually Impaired. By redefining the scope and governance of Special School Programs and enhancing the framework within which these institutions operate, the bill aims to streamline educational services provided to students in state-operated facilities, regardless of their age or place of residence.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally positive among legislators endorsing it, particularly in the context of improving educational frameworks for special needs students. Supporters argue that by simplifying administrative processes and clarifying governance structures, the bill could lead to improved educational outcomes and better resource utilization. However, some concerns were raised regarding the overarching centralized control and whether it might overlook the unique needs of individuals within the distinct local contexts of the special schools.

Contention

A notable point of contention exists surrounding the implications of centralized authority as specified in the bill. While the intent is to ensure uniformity and efficiency in the administration of special education, some stakeholders express the fear that local institutions might lose autonomy, which could lead to a one-size-fits-all approach that does not adequately meet diverse educational needs. Furthermore, discussions highlight the potential need for sufficient funding and resources to implement the mandates of the bill effectively.