Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HCR62

Introduced
5/6/19  
Introduced
5/6/19  
Refer
5/7/19  
Refer
5/7/19  
Report Pass
5/29/19  
Report Pass
5/29/19  
Engrossed
6/3/19  
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.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HCR20

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to make changes to the Minimum Foundation Program formula beginning with the formula adopted for the 2010-2011 school year

LA HR148

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to convene a study group to study issues relative to the minimum foundation program (MFP) formula

LA SCR124

Requests BESE to study and determine the most equitable method of funding special education students within the MFP formula.

LA HCR33

Provides for legislative approval of adjustments to the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) formula adopted by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education on October 14, 2020 (Item #4) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HSR10

Requests the House Committee on Education to study the powers, duties, and functions of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the state Dept. of Education

LA HR243

Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education reconvene a Minimum Foundation Program task force to determine the actual cost of public education and identify potential funding mechanisms

LA HCR30

Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education study the feasibility and advisability of pursuing a residential charter school model in La.

LA HR190

Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education reconvene a Minimum Foundation Program task force to determine the actual cost of public education and identify potential funding mechanisms

LA HR228

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to study challenges of rural school systems impacted by economic downturn

LA HCR108

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to study school calendar options for public schools

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.