TX
Texas House Bill HB23

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB23

Caption

Relating to a grant program to fund innovative programs for public school students with autism.

Impact

If passed, HB23 has the potential to significantly enhance educational services for students with autism by directing state funding to innovative initiatives. The focus on evidence-based practices and collaboration among districts aims to create a more effective and inclusive learning environment. Additionally, the program promotes accessibility by prohibiting fees for participation and ensuring parental consent in placement decisions. This strategic allocation of funds could lead to improved educational outcomes for children with autism, benefiting both students and school systems across Texas.

Summary

House Bill 23 establishes a grant program aimed at funding innovative programs for public school students with autism in Texas. It mandates the Commissioner of Education to create this program, which will award grants to school districts and open-enrollment charter schools that implement these specialized services. The bill outlines eligibility criteria for the programs, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices, parental collaboration, and technological integration. These grants are part of the Foundation School Program funding, and up to 10 programs may be funded each year, with a maximum of $1 million awarded per program during the specified fiscal biennium.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB23 appears largely positive, reflecting a bipartisan recognition of the need for enhanced support for students with autism. Lawmakers from various political backgrounds have voiced support for the bill, recognizing the challenge that autism presents within educational contexts. However, there may be a subtle concern regarding the effectiveness and oversight of the grant program, with calls for transparency and careful monitoring of the funded initiatives to ensure they meet their intended goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB23 may arise regarding the distribution of funds, specifically how grants are awarded and measured for success. Critics may question whether the program will adequately reflect the diversity of student needs across Texas, and whether the selected programs will receive sufficient oversight to ensure they provide effective services. Stakeholders may also debate the long-term sustainability of funding for such initiatives beyond the initial fiscal biennium, raising questions about the future of support for autism education in the state.

Latest TX HB23 Activity

View All Events: TX 2017 - 85th Regular HB23

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX SB1474

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB2

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including the establishment of a school safety grant program and a school safety plan implementation grant program, and the allocation of certain constitutional transfers of money to the state school safety fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

TX SB445

Relating to the establishment of a grant program to provide additional resources for public school students with disabilities.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX HB4969

Relating to a parent-directed supplemental services and instructional materials program for public school students; establishing an allotment under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4515

Relating to an alternative qualified early learning grant program administered by the commissioner of education and funding for prekindergarten and kindergarten programs under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB82

Relating to a parent-directed supplemental services and instructional materials program for public school students; authorizing a fee.

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