Texas House Bill HB1330

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to a legislative outreach program requiring members of the legislature to visit public schools.

Impact

The impact of HB1330 on state laws is centered around Chapter 301 of the Government Code, where it introduces new responsibilities for legislators. By mandating that legislators engage with public schools, the bill seeks to foster a stronger connection between state representatives and their communities. Students will benefit from direct interactions with their legislators, potentially sparking interest in civic participation and awareness of public affairs from a young age.

Summary

House Bill 1330 establishes a legislative outreach program requiring members of the Texas legislature to visit public schools within their districts. The intent of the bill is to enhance civic education among students by informing them about the role of legislators and the legislative process. Each member must visit at least five schools during their two-year term, with the aim of promoting interaction between legislators and students. This initiative is designed to give students a better understanding of governmental functions and the challenges faced by their representatives.

Contention

Although the bill aims to promote transparency and interaction within the community, there may be concerns about the implementation and practical aspects of the outreach program. Legislators are required to balance their legislative duties with school visits, which could pose a challenge regarding scheduling and time management. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the effectiveness of such engagements in genuinely increasing student understanding of legislative processes and whether it can translate into greater civic involvement in the future.