Louisiana House Bill HR228

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/28/19
• Refer: 5/28/19
• Report Pass: 5/29/19
• Passed: 6/5/19

Caption

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

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the economic struggles that rural communities face, noting that low property values and insufficient industrial presence lead to inadequate funding for public education. These fiscal challenges are compounded by high poverty rates and the increased costs associated with providing education over large geographic areas. The study requested by HR228 is expected to explore potential measures to ensure the ongoing viability of rural school systems in Louisiana.

Summary

House Resolution 228 (HR228) urges and requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to conduct a study on the challenges faced by rural school systems in Louisiana, which have been significantly impacted by economic downturns. The resolution highlights how decreased revenues and declining student populations threaten the viability of these educational institutions, stressing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the financial conditions and unique challenges present in rural areas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR228 appears supportive, as there is a recognition of the urgent need to address the challenges faced by rural education systems. It reflects a proactive approach to understanding and mitigating the adverse effects of economic downturns on education. Stakeholders, including members of the education community, are likely to view the resolution positively for its commitment to developing informed recommendations that could lead to improved educational outcomes.

Contention

Ultimately, HR228 seeks to shine a light on the myriad difficulties that rural school systems encounter and to gather data that may inform legislative and educational policy. The potential contention may arise from differing opinions on the effectiveness of proposed measures or the allocation of resources to address these challenges. Collaborative efforts with local educational associations will be crucial in developing a nuanced understanding of the issues at hand.