Rhode Island House Bill H6112

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/3/23

Caption

The Education Equity And Property Tax Relief Act

Impact

The passage of H6112 is expected to significantly impact local education agencies by providing more targeted funding to those areas grappling with higher rates of poverty. By updating the poverty measure used in funding calculations, the bill positions itself to reflect more accurately the needs of students from low-income backgrounds, thus facilitating a more equitable distribution of educational resources. Local education agencies will benefit from the ability to set aside funds for expanding learning opportunities, further contributing to improved educational outcomes.

Summary

House Bill H6112, titled 'The Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act,' aims to enhance the funding mechanisms for schools in Rhode Island by revising the formula for foundation education aid. The bill specifies that districts with over 45% of students from low-income families will see an increase in their funding support, particularly through a boost in the student success factor applied to the core instruction per-pupil amount. This approach is designed to better accommodate the educational needs of high-need students and improve overall educational equity across the state.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding H6112 regarding the implications of adjusting the poverty measure and how it affects funding allocations. Critics argue that this framework may inadvertently favor certain districts over others, potentially leading to greater disparities in funding across varying localities. Additionally, discussions have arisen about the practicality of the measures proposed, particularly in terms of how the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will implement these funding adjustments effectively. The balance between equitable support and financial sustainability remains a focal point of debate in legislative discussions.