Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2405

Introduced
6/11/24  

Caption

Establishing the Freedom Schools Grant Program; and making an appropriation.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2405 could have significant implications for state laws concerning educational funding and equity. By introducing a grant program specifically targeting schools serving lower-income communities, the bill aims to ameliorate funding gaps that have historically hindered educational access and quality for marginalized groups. This move could potentially lead to changes in how educational funds are allocated at the state level and incentivize local governments to prioritize programs aimed at improving student outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 2405 proposes the establishment of the Freedom Schools Grant Program, which aims to support educational initiatives designed to enhance learning opportunities for disadvantaged students. The program is intended to provide financial resources to schools and organizations that seek to implement educational strategies focused on equity and access. This initiative aligns with broader educational reform efforts that emphasize the need for community-based solutions to address disparities in educational outcomes.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 2405 appears to be supportive among advocates for educational reform, who view the bill as a positive step towards addressing systemic challenges faced by disadvantaged students. However, there are also concerns about the sustainability of funding and the effectiveness of such programs in producing long-term improvements in educational attainment. Critiques point to the potential for the bill to face challenges in implementation, particularly regarding accountability and the distribution of funds among eligible organizations.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the mechanics of the grant program and the criteria for funding allocation. Questions have been raised about how the program will be administered and whether it will adequately reach the intended beneficiaries. Additionally, some stakeholders worry about the potential for bureaucracy or mismanagement of funds, which could undermine the program's goals. As discussions continue, achieving a balance between effective oversight and empowering local educational initiatives remains a focal point of the debate surrounding HB 2405.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1261

Establishing the School Mental Health Screening Grant and Development Program; and making appropriations.

PA SB254

Providing for the STEM Grant Program; and making an appropriation.

PA HB795

Providing for the Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time Grant Program; establishing the Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time Fund; and making an appropriation.

PA SB219

Providing for School-Based Youth Court Pilot Program and for awarding grants; establishing the Youth Court Program Account; and making a transfer.

PA SB1302

Providing for School-Based Youth Court Pilot Program and for awarding grants; establishing the Youth Court Program Account; and making a transfer.

PA SB1057

Providing for the Educational Freedom Act Program; and establishing the Educational Freedom Act Fund and educational freedom accounts.

PA SB714

Providing for the STEM Grant Program; and making an appropriation.

PA HB1542

Establishing the Electric School Bus Grant Program and the Electric School Bus Grant Program Fund; providing for duties of the Department of Education; and making an appropriation.

PA HB137

Establishing the Solar for Schools Grant Program; providing for powers and duties of the Department of Community and Economic Development; and making an appropriation.

PA HB1258

In pupils and attendance, providing for personalized education program; providing for student freedom accounts; and establishing the Student Freedom Account Program.

Similar Bills

VA HB552

Income tax, corporate; sourcing of sales other than sales of tangible personal property.

VA HB552

Income tax, corporate; sourcing of sales other than sales of tangible personal property.

PA SB567

Providing for grant oversight.

PA SB222

Providing for grant oversight.

PA HB1579

Providing for Commonwealth grant accountability and transparency.

PA HB1254

Providing for internal auditing; and imposing duties on the Auditor General.

VA HB1194

Industrial Development and Revenue Bond Act; affordable housing grants.

PA HB44

Providing for improper payments; and providing for participation in Do-Not-Pay Initiative.