Pennsylvania House Bill HB1076

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/23
• Refer: 5/2/23

Caption

In pupils and attendance, providing for school building closure requirements.

Impact

The legislation's implications are significant for school governance and operations. By requiring schools to notify the Department of Education about closures and detailing any financial liabilities, the bill aims to bring transparency and accountability to the process. This allows for oversight to ensure that closures are conducted responsibly and that stakeholders, especially students, are supported in the transition to new educational arrangements.

Summary

House Bill 1076 aims to establish a set of requirements for school building closures within Pennsylvania. It amends the existing Public School Code of 1949 to ensure that proper procedures are followed when a school entity voluntarily closes a school, including nonrenewal or revocation. The bill mandates that the entity provide thorough notifications to the Department of Education and to parents or guardians of students affected by the closure, outlining the effective date, contact information, and how to obtain important student records.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1076 appears generally positive, as it seeks to clarify and regulate the closure process that directly affects students and families. Legislators supporting the bill emphasize its intention to protect students' rights by ensuring they have access to necessary information during potentially disruptive transitions. However, some concerns could arise from schools facing closures due to financial instability or poor performance, which may lead to opposition from those advocating for more localized control and support for struggling schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention may occur regarding the implementation of the bill, particularly with how it delineates responsibilities among school entities and the Department of Education. Critics might argue that while the bill's intentions are sound, the responsibilities placed on schools could add additional bureaucratic burdens during already challenging times. The potential for audits of financial liabilities also raises questions about how schools will be assessed and what criteria will be used, possibly stirring debate on financial management and accountability within the public education system.