Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1628

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to insurance claims and certain prohibited acts and practices in or in relation to the business of insurance.

Impact

The potential impact of SB1628 on state laws is significant, as it calls for changes to existing statutes governing educational funding and local school district allocations. By prioritizing funding for teacher salaries, the bill aims to enhance teaching quality and retention rates, particularly in under-resourced districts. This measure could lead to more equitable educational environments, thereby improving statewide educational outcomes. However, the changes may necessitate budget reallocations at the state level, which could lead to debates about funding sources and budget priorities.

Summary

SB1628 focuses on reforming educational funding in the state, particularly aimed at increasing allocations for teacher salaries and improving overall student performance metrics. The bill proposes a restructuring of the current funding model to ensure that schools located in economically disadvantaged areas receive increased financial support. Advocates argue that this new funding strategy will directly address inequities in the education system, thus providing a more balanced opportunity for all students, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding SB1628 appears to be mixed but leans toward advocacy for educational reform. Proponents, including educational lobbyists and some legislative members, have praised the bill for addressing critical needs within the state's education framework. Meanwhile, critics express concerns about the bill's budget implications and the sustainability of increased funding over the long term. They argue that while the intentions are commendable, the practicalities of funding these initiatives need thorough examination to avoid future fiscal challenges.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1628 include the discussions about the sources of funding for the increased allocations proposed in the bill. Some legislators fear that prioritizing teacher salaries might come at the expense of other essential educational resources. Additionally, there are concerns from localities about how the reallocation of funds may affect their operational budgets and capabilities. The debates highlight broader discussions about educational equity and the financial responsibilities of the state in ensuring that all children have access to quality education.

Companion Bills

TX HB3646

Identical Relating to insurance claims and certain prohibited acts and practices in or in relation to the business of insurance; amending provisions that are or may be subject to a criminal penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1321

Relating to certain insurance practices with respect to repair of motor vehicles.

TX HB150

Relating to prohibiting oral releases for automobile insurance claims.

TX SB1042

Relating to prohibiting oral releases for automobile insurance claims.

TX SB1217

Relating to the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.

TX HB1320

Relating to recovery under uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance coverage.

TX HB1239

Relating to consideration by insurers of certain prohibited criteria for ratemaking and coverage decisions and the use of disparate impact analysis regarding certain insurance practices.

TX HB2880

Relating to the administration of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.

TX SB1268

Relating to the payment of insurance deductibles for property insurance claims.

TX HB4498

Relating to the transfer and statutory novation of insurance policies from a transferring insurer to an assuming insurer through an insurance business transfer plan; authorizing fees.

TX SB675

Relating to small business recovery funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; imposing a monetary penalty; authorizing fees.

Similar Bills

TX HB1059

Relating to the effective date of certain actions taken by the commissioner of education against school districts that exceed the equalized wealth level and to reattachment of property detached from a school district by the commissioner of education to achieve the equalized wealth level.

TX SB1247

Relating to the effective date of certain actions taken by the commissioner of education against school districts that exceed the equalized wealth level and to reattachment of property detached from a school district by the commissioner of education to achieve the equalized wealth level.

TX HB911

Relating to adoption of a temporary program for the operation and funding of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.

TX HB3347

Relating to revocation of a charter for an open-enrollment charter school and procedures for the disposition of property owned by a charter school after revocation or surrender of a charter.

TX SB2607

Relating to the use of tax collections in determining certain state and local responsibilities for school funding.

TX HB3

Relating to public school finance and public education; creating a criminal offense; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX SB2145

Relating to the public school finance system.

TX SB18

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Property Insurance Program and the operation of the FAIR Plan Association and the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.