Relating to repeal of provisions requiring a school district to reduce its local revenue level in excess of entitlement.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2079 would significantly affect funding dynamics for school districts in Texas. By removing the obligation to reduce local revenue levels, districts could allocate more funds directly towards educational programs, infrastructure improvements, and other local initiatives without the fear of financial penalties imposed due to exceeding revenue thresholds. This change could foster an environment where districts are more empowered to meet the needs of their communities and adapt resources according to local demands.
Summary
House Bill 2079 aims to amend provisions related to school districts' financial operations, specifically addressing the requirement that school districts reduce their local revenue levels when exceeding certain entitlements. This bill intends to eliminate the provisions that enforced such reductions, thereby providing more financial flexibility to school districts. The proposed changes indicate an effort to allow districts to retain more of their local funding and potentially invest more resources in educational services and facilities.
Contention
Notably, there are voices both supporting and opposing this bill within the legislative discussions. Proponents argue that maintaining local revenue levels is critical for the growth and sustenance of quality education, especially in rapidly growing districts. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential implications for statewide funding equity, as some districts may benefit disproportionately from the removal of these regulations, potentially widening the resource gap between wealthier and underfunded areas.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 12. Charters
Section: New Section
Section: 029
Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
Section: New Section
Section: 272
Section: 2721
Section: 275
Section: 283
Chapter 27. Learning Pods
Section: New Section
Chapter 49. Options For Local Revenue Levels In Excess Of Entitlement
Section: New Section
Tax Code
Chapter 312. Property Redevelopment And Tax Abatement Act
Relating to a reduction of the amount by which certain school districts must reduce their local revenue levels in excess of entitlement under the public school finance system.
Relating to a reduction of the amount by which certain districts with high enrollment of educationally disadvantaged students must reduce the districts' local revenue levels in excess of entitlement under the public school finance system.
Relating to the elimination of certain property taxes for school district maintenance and operations and the provision of public education funding by increasing the rates of certain state taxes.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to providing school district property tax relief through rent-relief and through adjusting entitlements, compression, and exemptions under the public school finance system.
Relating to certain adjustments to the taxable value of property of certain school districts and the reduction of Foundation School Program funds received by certain school districts.
Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.