Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H1116

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Relative to the treatment of infantile cataracts

Impact

If enacted, H1116 would significantly alter the landscape of school funding, mandating the state to take a more active role in the oversight of budget allocations to local school districts. The bill aims to close the funding gap that has been historically evident between affluent and impoverished districts, which opponents argue has long-term detrimental effects on student performance and educational attainment. By shifting resources to where they are needed most, the bill intends to create a more level playing field for all students in the state.

Summary

House Bill 1116 seeks to reform the education funding model within the state, aiming to bring more equity in resource allocation across various school districts. It proposes adjustments to the current funding formulas to ensure that schools in underserved and low-income areas receive adequate financial support. Proponents of the bill argue that this funding realignment is necessary to achieve equitable educational outcomes and address systemic disparities present in the current model.

Contention

The discussions surrounding H1116 have been contentious, with critics raising concerns about potential overreach by the state government into local education matters. Opponents, including some local educators and administrators, are wary that increased state oversight could lead to a one-size-fits-all approach that might not be suitable for all districts. They advocate for maintaining local control and the ability of districts to determine their specific needs without state interference, fearing that a shift in power could undermine local decision-making capabilities.

Companion Bills

MA S811

Similar To To address the financial sustainability of the Health Safety Net

MA H4691

Replaced by Auto and health insurance

Previously Filed As

MA H1287

Relative to the treatment of infantile cataracts

MA HB3517

Relating to obesity treatments.

MA AB350

Health care coverage: fluoride treatments.

MA SB335

Health insurance; coverage for fertility preservation treatments.

MA SB333

State plan for medical assistance services; fertility preservation treatments, etc.

MA SR37

Designates October 22, 2020, as Cataract Awareness Day at the Louisiana State Capitol.

MA SB954

Fertility preservation treatments; state plan for medical assistance services.

MA SB111

AN ACT relating to coverage for the treatment of stuttering.

MA HB278

State plan for medical assistance services; fertility preservation treatments, etc.

MA SB333

State plan for medical assistance services; fertility preservation treatments, etc.

Similar Bills

MA H1287

Relative to the treatment of infantile cataracts

NJ AJR190

Designates May 7 of each year as "Cystinosis Awareness Day" in New Jersey.

LA SR37

Designates October 22, 2020, as Cataract Awareness Day at the Louisiana State Capitol.

MD SB117

Health - Newborn Screening Program - Implementation of Testing

MD HB96

Health - Newborn Screening Program - Implementation of Testing

LA HB403

Adds drugs prescribed for certain ocular conditions to the listing of prescription drugs exempt from local sales and use taxes (EN DECREASE LF RV See Note)

RI H8316

HOUSE RESOLUTION EXTENDING CONGRATULATIONS

CA SCR70

National Eye Exam Month.