Relating to reducing the amount paid to purchase attendance credits by certain school districts in disaster areas.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2448 would amend Section 41 of the Education Code by introducing a new provision that allows qualifying school districts to request a decrease in their payment obligations for attendance credits. The eligibility criteria for such reductions include the existence of a state-declared disaster, significant property damage, and the potential detrimental impact on the district's fund balance due to compliance with the wealth reduction requirements. This legislative change aims to provide necessary financial flexibility during times of crisis.
Summary
House Bill 2448 is focused on providing financial relief to school districts located in disaster areas by offering a reduction in the amounts they are required to pay to purchase attendance credits. The bill recognizes that in the event of a disaster, these school districts may suffer significant property damage and operational disruptions that could hinder their educational services. Therefore, it proposes a mechanism through which impacted districts can apply for reduced payments for attendance credits as they work towards recovery and restoration of normal operations.
Contention
The bill’s provisions may ignite discussions surrounding the adequacy and fairness of funding mechanisms for publicly funded education in Texas. While the bill aims to assist districts in distress, it raises questions about the long-term implications for educational finance, particularly regarding wealth equalization and equity among districts. Legislators may debate the extent of the disaster criteria and the potential strain on state resources as the commissioner is granted significant discretion in determining eligibility and the amount of funds retained.
Final_provisions
HB 2448 specifies that any decisions made by the commissioner related to the payment reductions are final and not subject to appeal, which adds an element of administrative finality. The act is designed to take effect for the 2009-2010 school year, establishing an immediate response mechanism for future natural disasters impacting school operations across the state.
Relating to the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, certain allotments under the Foundation School Program, determination of a school district's assets to liabilities ratio under the public school financial accountability rating system, and credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to a credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Permits high performing school districts to be monitored by DOE under New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJ QSAC) every seven years rather than every three years.