Texas House Bill HB4193

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a credit account program for students with disabilities.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will significantly amend Chapter 29 of the Education Code by adding a new subchapter dedicated to the credit account program. This change will potentially enhance educational opportunities for students with disabilities across the state. The program's funding mechanism will allow eligible families to receive payments that can be utilized for a variety of educational expenses, including tuition for courses, instructional materials, and specialized educational services. This initiative aims to promote equity in education by ensuring that students with disabilities have access to necessary resources that facilitate their learning.

Summary

House Bill 4193 establishes a credit account program specifically designed for students with disabilities in Texas. The intent of the bill is to provide eligible students with access to additional educational resources and services that go beyond what is offered in the public education system. The program is administered by the commissioner of education, who is responsible for overseeing the establishment and operation of the credit accounts. The bill emphasizes the importance of funding to enable students with disabilities to receive appropriate educational support tailored to their needs.

Contention

Despite its positive aims, there may be points of contention related to the implementation of the program. Critics may voice concerns regarding the accountability of how funds are spent by program participants, as the enforcement of proper use of the credit accounts could be challenging. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the adequacy of funding allocated to support the growing number of eligible students and the types of educational supports that should be included under the program. Stakeholders will need to ensure that the program is effectively monitored and that it meets the diverse needs of students with disabilities.