Texas House Bill HB4311

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to an allotment under the public school finance system for certain students whose parent or legal guardian has been incarcerated.

Impact

If enacted, HB4311 would significantly impact the public school finance system in Texas, specifically concerning students affected by their parents' incarceration. The additional funding could help districts address the unique challenges faced by these students, potentially improving their educational outcomes and overall well-being. This allotment aims to enhance resources available for programs and services that cater to the needs of these vulnerable students, promoting their engagement and success in the educational environment.

Summary

House Bill 4311 proposes an amendment to the Education Code of Texas, specifically by introducing a new section under Subchapter C, Chapter 42. The primary objective of this bill is to provide additional financial support to school districts for students whose parents or legal guardians are incarcerated. The mechanism for this support is an annual allotment of funds, calculated as 1.1 times the district's adjusted basic allotment for each qualifying student. This measure is intended to mitigate the financial strain on school districts resulting from increased needs among students affected by parental incarceration.

Contention

While the bill's intentions may be widely supported as a move towards providing equitable educational opportunities, it could also spark discussions regarding the broader implications of funding allocations and the priorities of state education policy. Some concerns may arise around how such allotments are implemented and if they adequately address the complexities involved with students from incarcerated households. Critics might argue about the effectiveness of this approach in addressing the systemic issues related to incarceration and education, such as the need for comprehensive support services beyond mere financial provisions.