Louisiana House Bill HB185

Louisiana 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/25
• Refer: 3/31/25
• Refer: 4/14/25

Caption

Provides for the methodology the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education uses to count students for purposes of the minimum foundation program (MFP) formula (OR +$100,000 GF EX See Note)

Impact

The passage of HB 185 could lead to significant implications for educational funding in the state. By shifting to an average daily attendance model, it is expected that some schools may benefit from increased funding based on actual attendance, while others could find themselves receiving less support than they did under the previous method. Critics may argue that this approach could create disparities, particularly for schools in areas with fluctuating or seasonal populations. Nevertheless, supporters argue that it will provide a more equitable distribution of funds, allowing for better allocation of resources based on genuine attendance patterns instead of static counts from specific days.

Summary

House Bill 185 aims to reform the methodology used by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) for counting students for the purposes of the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP). The bill mandates that BESE adopt a system based on 'average daily attendance' instead of the traditional methods that include specific count dates. This change is designed to provide a more accurate reflection of student attendance and, subsequently, the funding allocated to schools across Louisiana. By implementing this methodology, the bill seeks to enhance the reliability of public education funding, adjusting it to reflect current attendance trends rather than fixed dates which may not accurately represent actual student populations at any given time.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be cautiously optimistic among legislators and educational stakeholders. Proponents commend the bill for its forward-thinking approach to funding education and acknowledge the importance of reflecting real-time attendance in financial allocations. However, there are some concerns regarding the execution and potential impact on schools that may not have the capacity to adapt swiftly to the changes. These mixed feelings reflect a broader debate about educational resource allocation in Louisiana and the ongoing efforts to address inequities and improve education across the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from concerns about the administrative burden and the efficacy of transitioning to an average daily attendance system across diverse school districts. Stakeholders are also divided over fears of unintended consequences, such as funding losses for certain districts which may struggle to maintain high attendance rates. These concerns resonate within the legislative discussions, leading to calls for further analysis and perhaps an adjustment period to allow for a smooth implementation of the new methodology. The bill's progression through the legislature may involve negotiations to ensure that local governments and educational institutions have the necessary support to adapt to these changes.