Provides relative to eligibility of kindergarten students for participation in the voucher program (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Impact
The impact of HB 126 on state laws pertains to educational policy, specifically how the state supports school choice through voucher programs. By tightening the eligibility requirements, the bill potentially limits access to the voucher system for families previously qualified under broader criteria. It reflects a trend toward prioritizing public funding for students in the worst-performing schools, thus suggesting that state resources may be better allocated to those who most need educational alternatives. This change may streamline the application and funding processes for the state and schools involved.
Summary
House Bill 126 amends eligibility criteria for the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program, which is Louisiana's voucher program for school choice. The primary change proposed by the bill is that only students entering kindergarten who would have attended schools with a letter grade of 'D' or 'F' will be eligible for the voucher, provided they reside in families earning less than 250% of the federal poverty guideline. This aims to direct resources to students from low-performing schools in an effort to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged students.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around HB 126 is mixed. Proponents argue that the bill will help focus educational resources where they are most needed, enhancing opportunities for students from lower-income families who are trapped in failing schools. On the flip side, critics express concerns that the narrow eligibility criteria might exclude many students from low-income backgrounds who would benefit from vouchers, particularly those not attending schools that receive low grades. The bill's debate illustrates the ongoing struggle between supporting educational freedom and ensuring equitable access to quality education.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the definition of eligible students and the potential exclusion of students attending moderately performing schools that might not receive a 'D' or 'F', yet still struggle significantly. There are concerns that this may create inequities in access to educational opportunities. Opponents emphasize that the bill may undermine the original intent of voucher programs to provide broader access to quality education and might disproportionately affect families in areas with limited school options.
Provides relative to the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence (voucher) Program, including scholarship amounts, funding, and eligibility requirements for kindergarten students (OR NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Provides relative to the definition of "eligible student" for participation in the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence (voucher) Program (OR SEE FISC NOTE EX)
Provides relative to student eligibility requirements for the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence (voucher) Program (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Provides relative to student eligibility to participate in the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program. (gov sig) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Provides relative to student eligibility to participate in the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program. (gov sig) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)