Tennessee House Bill HB0715

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/14/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49 and Title 71, relative to TANF funds.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would facilitate a means for LEAs and public charter schools in Tennessee to finance programs that cater to students in need, potentially enhancing educational support services. The bill delineates a structured process whereby educational institutions can apply for these funds, ensuring that the allocation of TANF resources is organized and systematic. The Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, will publish a list of eligible programs, adding a layer of transparency and accountability to the funding process.

Summary

House Bill 0715 is designed to amend Tennessee's Code Annotated, specifically in Title 49, to allow Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools the ability to use Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for educational programs that serve eligible students. The bill seeks to broaden the funding options available for schools, allowing them to access federal TANF funds provided such use aligns with federal regulations. The implementation is contingent upon available funding, creating an immediate requirement for schools to plan efficiently if they wish to utilize these resources.

Contention

While the bill aims to provide additional resources for schools, there may be concerns regarding the appropriateness and sufficiency of TANF funds for educational purposes. Some stakeholders may debate whether TANF, traditionally directed towards direct financial assistance for low-income families, should also be integrated into educational funding streams. Critics may argue that such a move could lead to varying interpretations of eligible programs, potentially complicating the application process and the equitable distribution of funds among schools.

Final_notes

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2023, emphasizing the urgency for schools to adapt to this new funding opportunity. The close legislative vote (5 yeas to 4 nays) during the K-12 Subcommittee's recommendation for passage suggests that while there is support for the initiative, it also faced considerable scrutiny, indicating ongoing discussions about the implications of this funding strategy on the broader education landscape in Tennessee.