Louisiana House Bill HCR62

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/6/19
• Refer: 5/7/19
• Report Pass: 5/29/19
• Engrossed: 6/3/19
• Passed: 6/5/19

Caption

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to study the feasibility of restructuring the MFP formula

Impact

If adopted, HCR62 could significantly influence how educational funding is allocated in Louisiana. The study requested in the resolution aims to explore methodologies that would allow for a more nuanced funding approach where schools receive different funding levels based upon the specific needs of their students. This could lead to increased funding for students requiring more resources, such as those with disabilities or special learning needs. Historically, the MFP formula has employed varying weights for different student types, and revisiting this methodology could improve financial equity within the state’s educational systems.

Summary

HCR62 is a Concurrent Resolution that urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to study the feasibility of restructuring the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) formula. This formula is crucial for determining educational funding across Louisiana's public schools and aims to ensure that funding correlates with student needs, particularly for those with exceptionalities. The resolution emphasizes the need for differentiated levels of funding based on various student characteristics, suggesting a pivot from a flat rate funding model that has been criticized for being inequitable.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment regarding HCR62 appears to be positive among educational stakeholders who advocate for more equitable funding practices. Supporters argue that differentiated funding is a best practice nationally and will lead to better educational outcomes for students with exceptional needs. However, there might also be concerns from certain groups about the feasibility and implementation of this new funding structure, particularly about the resources required to carry out the necessary studies and changes effectively.

Contention

Some contention arises from the historical challenges in adopting a differentiated funding model in Louisiana. Past attempts to incorporate multiple tiers of funding have faced legislative hurdles, raising questions about whether the recommendations from the study requested by HCR62 will be acted upon effectively. Critics of the current flat funding model argue that it fails to adequately address the unique needs of students with exceptionalities, prompting the discussion around HCR62 to focus on the chronic inequity in educational funding distribution.