Louisiana House Bill HB380

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

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

Caption

Prohibits the use of state funds for certain assessments without legislative authority (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The potential impact of HB 380 on state laws could be significant, particularly in how state funding for educational assessments is allocated and regulated. By prohibiting state funding without legislative backing, the bill seeks to create a mechanism for greater oversight and accountability regarding which assessment tools can be used in the state's educational framework. This change might lead to a shift in how educational assessments are chosen and funded, possibly reducing reliance on certain standardized testing models touted by national consortia.

Summary

House Bill 380 aims to restrict the expenditure of state funds on certain educational assessments developed by national groups, specifically the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) and the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium. The bill mandates that the implementation or administration of such assessments can only occur if there is explicit legislative authorization. This legislative measure is intended to give the state more control over educational expenditures related to student assessments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 380 appears to be mixed, as it resonates differently among education stakeholders. Supporters may view it as a protective measure that prioritizes state authority over federal or national educational standards and assessments. Conversely, opponents might argue that it limits access to effective assessment tools that have been widely accepted for measuring student readiness and performance. The debate encapsulates broader discussions on educational autonomy and assessment efficacy.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications of restricting state funds for nationally standardized assessments. Proponents of the bill believe that centralized control will lead to better tailored educational strategies to meet local needs, while opponents raise concerns that limiting funding for these assessments could hinder educational standards and accountability. The bill draws attention to the balance between local control of educational policy versus the benefits and efficiencies often provided by standardized assessments developed at a national level.