Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB952

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the use of electronic means for the delivery of ad valorem tax bills to certain property owners and agents.

Impact

If enacted, SB952 would have a significant impact on state laws related to education funding and resources. The bill proposes to allocate additional state financial resources to public schools, tying funding levels more closely to student enrollment numbers and specific educational needs. This amendment is expected to create more stable funding levels during economic fluctuations and reduce the reliance on local property taxes to fund education, which has created inequities in many areas. As such, the bill could potentially reshape the landscape of educational finance in the state, promoting a fairer system that prioritizes student needs over local economic conditions.

Summary

SB952 is a legislative bill aimed at enhancing funding and resources for public education across the state. It outlines revisions to state education funding formulas, intending to ensure that schools are adequately funded to meet educational standards. The bill emphasizes the importance of equitable distribution of resources, particularly in underfunded districts, thereby addressing long-standing issues of disparity in school funding. Advocates believe that these changes are crucial for improving educational outcomes for students in disadvantaged areas and fostering equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB952 appears to be generally positive among education advocates and organizations. Supporters argue that the bill addresses critical gaps in funding and highlights a commitment to improving the educational framework within the state. They appreciate the focus on equitable funding and the potential for significant improvements in educational opportunities. However, some budget analysts have voiced concerns about the sustainability of increased funding levels, questioning how these additional resources would be maintained in the long term and how this may affect other areas of the state budget.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve debates over the funding sources and implications of the proposed changes. Critics of SB952 have raised concerns that while the bill sets ambitious goals for funding, the financial mechanisms to support these increases may rely heavily on tax increases or reallocation from other essential services. Additionally, there are apprehensions about whether the revised funding formulas will be sufficient to cover the needs of all districts adequately, particularly those with unique challenges like low enrollment or high poverty rates. The discussions thus revolve around balancing the urgent need for educational reform against fiscal responsibility.

Companion Bills

TX HB843

Identical Relating to the use of electronic means for the delivery of ad valorem tax bills to certain property owners and agents.

Similar Bills

TX HB843

Relating to the use of electronic means for the delivery of ad valorem tax bills to certain property owners and agents.

IL HB1818

PROP TX-RECORDS

WY HB0282

Property tax-acquisition value.

WY SF0161

Residential property-acquisition value.

CA SB255

County recorders: notification.

CA AB317

California First Time Homeowner Dream Act.

MA H3093

Relative to the electronic filing of certain forms used in property valuation

AR HB1565

To Amend The Law Concerning The Duties Of A County Property Assessor; And To Permit A Property Owner To Opt Out Of Having The Property Owner's Information Posted On An Online Database.