Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB65

Introduced

1/22/25

Refer

1/22/25

Refer

3/31/25

Caption

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The legislation is expected to substantially change the landscape of education funding. If enacted, SB65 would alter existing laws governing how funds are distributed to public schools, prioritizing school choice and aiming to ensure a more diverse set of educational options for families across the state. This could result in increased accessibility to charter schools and other alternative education systems, as well as comprehensive funding for public schools that successfully demonstrate positive performance metrics, marking a significant shift in how educational institutions are incentivized and funded.

Summary

Senate Bill 65 aims to reform the funding mechanisms for education in the state by introducing measures to enhance school choice and increase financial support for public schools. The bill proposes adjustments in budget allocations that would potentially redirect funds towards initiatives aimed at expanding options for parents and students, thereby promoting competition among educational institutions. Supporters argue that this shift could lead to improved educational outcomes and greater accountability from schools, sparking a vital discussion around the future of educational reform in the state.

Sentiment

Opinions on SB65 are strongly divided among lawmakers and the public. Proponents, primarily from the Republican faction, view the bill as a forward-thinking approach to education that enhances parental choice and encourages schools to perform better. Alternatively, opponents—largely from the Democratic camp—express concerns regarding the potential downsides of diverting funds from traditional public schools, fearing this could compromise the quality of education for many students, particularly those in underfunded districts. This ongoing debate highlights the wider issue of how best to support varied educational needs while maintaining a balanced approach to funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB65 include discussions on equity in education funding and the potential impacts on public school stability. Critics argue that while school choice may provide benefits to some, it risks underfunding public schools that serve the majority of students, leading to a scenario where educational quality becomes markedly uneven. The bill’s passage would necessitate significant oversights and regulations to ensure that public schools remain adequately funded and capable of meeting the needs of their student populations throughout the transition.

Latest SB65 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB897

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1147

In rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus and for enforcement of failure to stop for school bus with flashing red lights.

PA SB37

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for learners' permits and for examination of applicant for driver's license; in rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting text-based communications and providing for prohibiting use of interactive mobile device; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle; in enforcement, providing for data collection and reporting relating to traffic stops; and imposing penalties.

PA SB851

In rules of the road in general, further providing for enforcement of failure to stop for school bus with flashing red lights; imposing a penalty; and making an editorial change.

PA SB420

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for speed timing devices; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.

PA SB998

In rules of the road in general, further providing for racing on highways; in enforcement, further providing for disposition of impounded vehicles, combinations and loads; in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for subsequent convictions of certain offenses; imposing penalties; and making editorial changes.

PA HB2266

PA HB1346

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege; in rules of the road in general, further providing for overtaking vehicle on the left and providing for vehicles passing pedestrians on a highway; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for penalty for violation of subchapter; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for the offense of careless driving.

PA HB1284

In rules of the road in general, further providing for automated enforcement of failure to stop for school bus with flashing red lights, for automated speed enforcement systems in active work zones and for pilot program for automated speed enforcement system on designated highway and providing for automated speed enforcement study and for pilot program for automated speed enforcement systems in designated school zones; and imposing a penalty.

PA HB457

In general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for obedience to authorized persons directing traffic and providing for drivers in organized motorcycle processions; and, in rules of the road in general, further providing for following too closely.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.