Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2215

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Establishing a regional equity and roadway board

Impact

If enacted, S2215 would have a significant impact on state laws regarding education funding. It proposes a formula that allocates funds based on student needs rather than merely attendance figures. This approach aims to address the existing inequalities in funding that disproportionately affect certain districts. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance educational resources in schools with higher needs, thereby fostering a greater focus on student achievement and educational equity across the state.

Summary

Bill S2215 aims to reform the state's education funding structure, primarily focusing on equalizing funding across various school districts. The bill's sponsors argue that current funding disparities hinder student performance, especially in underfunded rural and urban areas. By reshaping the funding method, S2215 seeks to provide a more equitable distribution of resources, ensuring that all students, regardless of their geographical location, have access to quality education. The intent is to raise educational standards and improve outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged students.

Contention

The discussions surrounding S2215 have highlighted notable points of contention between different stakeholders. Supporters, including education advocates and some lawmakers, argue that the bill is necessary to rectify historic funding imbalances that have persisted for years. They contend that by providing additional resources to the most disadvantaged districts, the state can significantly uplift student performance. Conversely, opponents, fearing the implications of reallocating funds, argue that the bill could lead to reductions in funding for districts that currently perform well, thus impacting their educational quality negatively. This opposition represents a significant divide in legislative support and reflects broader debates about educational funding strategies.

Companion Bills

MA S2805

Similar To Relative to advancing the profession of commercial interior design

MA H4743

Similar To Relative to treatments and coverage for substance use disorder and recovery coach licensure

MA S2948

Similar To Making the charter of the county on Nantucket gender neutral

MA H5119

Similar To Creating select board-town manager form of government in the town of Holliston

MA S2794

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Transportation to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to road financing.

Previously Filed As

MA S2121

Establishing the official marine flora of the Commonwealth

MA S149

Modernizing lottery payment options

MA S1492

Relative to newborn infant safe sleep practices

MA S1631

Relative to special needs trusts and pensions

MA S1060

Relative to the charitable immunity cap for cases involving sexual abuse

MA S1809

Relative to special needs trusts and pensions

MA S1984

Providing for access to baby-changing stations

MA S729

To restore the effective date of MassHealth coverage for new applicants

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.