TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1474

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1474

Filed
3/2/23  
Out of Senate Committee
4/24/23  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

Impact

The proposed changes will lead to notable adjustments within state education laws. The introduction of the education savings account can empower parents of children with disabilities by providing them with more choices regarding the funding and resources available for their education. The grant program for school districts is particularly aimed at incentivizing the hiring of retired educators, thus leveraging their expertise while addressing potential staff shortages in special education. Collectively, these measures could result in improved educational outcomes for many students across Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1474 is significant legislation aimed at enhancing special education services in Texas public schools. The bill outlines provisions for a special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, establishes an education savings account program for children with disabilities, and creates a grant program aimed at reimbursing school districts for costs related to the employment of retired teachers specializing in special education. These initiatives are designed to improve the accessibility and quality of educational services for students requiring special education, thereby ensuring that they receive the support needed to succeed.

Sentiment

Overall, there is a positive sentiment surrounding SB1474, particularly among advocates for special education who see it as a necessary step towards improving the education system for vulnerable populations. Legislators like Senator Bettencourt have expressed strong support for the bill, reflecting a belief that it represents an important advancement in meeting the needs of special education students. However, there are concerns among some constituents regarding the effective implementation and adequacy of funding, which could impact the actual benefits delivered to these children.

Contention

While SB1474 has garnered significant support, some contention lies in the details of its implementation and the associated financial ramifications for school districts. Critics have raised concerns about whether the proposed funding mechanisms will be sufficient or flexible enough to meet the diverse needs of children with disabilities in various educational settings. Furthermore, the bill's reliance on outside grant programs for incentives could lead to disparities in support depending on school district priorities and capabilities.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 8. Regional Education Service Centers
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 29. Educational Programs
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 110

Government Code

  • Chapter 825. Administration
    • Section: 4092
    • Section: 4092

Latest SB1474 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX SB568

Relating to special education in public schools, including funding for special education under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX HB100

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.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB2

Relating to public education and public school finance.

TX HB2419

Relating to special education and special education funding under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB1369

Relating to a student's eligibility for special education services provided by a school district, including services for dyslexia and related disorders.