Texas Senate Bill SB244

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 12/15/14

Caption

Relating to the elimination of the cost of education adjustment under the Foundation School Program.

Impact

The impact of SB244 on state laws is significant, as it would change how schools receive funding from the state. Without the cost adjustment, funding may become less variable and more predictable, which could be beneficial for financial planning within school districts. However, this change may lead to reduced funding for districts that previously benefited from higher allocations due to the cost adjustment. This adjustment was initially put in place to account for varying costs across different regions, which means that its removal may disproportionately affect schools in higher-cost areas.

Summary

SB244 proposes the elimination of the cost of education adjustment under the Foundation School Program in Texas. This bill seeks to amend multiple sections of the Education Code regarding how educational funding is allocated to school districts. The primary aim of the bill is to streamline funding by removing the cost adjustment that has been a part of the funding formulas used to determine state contributions to public education. By eliminating this adjustment, the bill aims to simplify the funding process for the state education system.

Contention

Notably, there are points of contention regarding the bill. Advocates argue that simplification of the funding formula will lead to greater transparency and efficiency in the educational funding process. They suggest that by removing unnecessary adjustments, funds can be more effectively distributed. However, opponents are concerned that eliminating the cost of education adjustment could exacerbate inequalities among school districts. Districts in economically disadvantaged areas could face challenges in maintaining educational services, potentially leading to larger resource gaps within the state’s education system.