Texas 2023 - 88th 4th C.S.

Texas House Bill HB41

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a parental empowerment program administered by the comptroller of public accounts.

Impact

If enacted, HB41 will alter the funding dynamics of the Texas education system by introducing a system where public funds can follow a child to the school of their choice, including private institutions. The bill allows parents or guardians of eligible students to receive reimbursements for tuition costs, enhancing educational options available to families. These changes might significantly affect existing statutes governing educational funding and the relationships between public schools and private educational entities, as well as potentially challenge the traditional public school funding framework.

Summary

House Bill 41, known as the Texas Parental Empowerment Act of 2023, aims to establish a program designed to enhance parental choice in education. Under this bill, the comptroller of public accounts will administer a parental empowerment program that permits parents to direct their children's education effectively. The legislation asserts that the education of children should primarily be the responsibility of parents rather than the government. This bill will provide funding for parents to choose educational opportunities that best suit their children's needs, including private schooling options, as parents will receive reimbursements for tuition paid based on specific criteria.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB41 appears largely supportive among proponents who advocate for increased parental control over educational decisions. Supporters argue that this bill empowers parents to choose educational paths that best fit their individual children, fostering a more tailored educational approach. However, apprehension exists among detractors who view the legislation as a potential threat to public education funding and as a means to subsidize private education, which could undermine public schools. This division reflects a broader national conversation about school choice and educational equity.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the implications for public education funding. Opponents worry that funding siphoned off to support private schooling could detract from resources available for public schools, leading to a decline in educational quality for students who remain in the public system. Furthermore, the bill raises questions regarding compliance for private schools with state educational standards, which could lead to disparities in educational quality and access. The bill’s passage could ignite debates over the extent of government support for private education versus public schooling responsibilities.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
    • Section: 266
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB62

Relating to the establishment of a parental empowerment program administered by the comptroller of public accounts.

TX HB2114

Relating to the establishment of an empowerment scholarship account program.

TX HB1892

Relating to improved educational efficiency by empowering parents through a program administered by the comptroller.

TX SB176

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Parental Empowerment Program and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.

TX HB4807

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Parental Empowerment Program and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.

TX HB27

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Parental Empowerment Program and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.

TX SB960

Relating to state savings and government efficiency achieved through a taxpayer savings grant program administered by the comptroller of public accounts.

TX HB2530

Relating to state savings achieved through a budget savings program administered by the comptroller of public accounts making an appropriation of a portion of those savings.

TX SB8

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB5261

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.