Louisiana House Bill HB376

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14

Caption

Requires that the state content standards developed by the state Dept. of Education be promulgated in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (OR NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

The bill's provisions are designed to solidify the procedural framework within which educational standards are developed, thereby aligning state practices with existing legal requirements for public involvement in the rule-making process. The inclusion of the APA suggests a commitment to fostering stakeholder engagement, including input from educators and the public, before any changes to the educational standards are enacted. This could potentially lead to more widely accepted and effective educational policies within Louisiana's school systems.

Summary

House Bill 376, introduced by Representative Geymann, mandates that the state content standards developed by the Louisiana Department of Education must be promulgated in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). This legislation aims to enhance the process of establishing educational standards in public elementary and secondary schools. By requiring adherence to the APA, the bill emphasizes transparency in the development and implementation of statewide content standards for required subjects, ensuring that these standards undergo public scrutiny and input prior to being finalized.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 376 appears largely supportive, especially among advocates for enhanced public engagement in education policymaking. Stakeholders in the educational sector express positive views on the increased transparency and accountability the bill aims to establish. However, there may be concerns among some who fear that additional procedural requirements could delay the implementation of necessary educational reforms, leading to potential pushback from those who prioritize rapid policy changes.

Contention

While the bill is primarily supported for its emphasis on proper procedural adherence, there may be contention about the implications of further regulation in administering educational standards. Some may argue that increased layers of governance could hinder the responsive and adaptive nature necessary for educational reforms, especially in a dynamic educational landscape. Nevertheless, the overarching consensus leans towards enhancing the legitimacy and inclusivity of the standards-setting process in Louisiana.