Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2361

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

Caption

Relating to self-directed and semi-independent status of certain health care regulatory agencies; making an appropriation; authorizing fees.

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to amend existing state laws regarding educational funding and school governance. By reallocating funds based on student needs and instituting measures to promote school choice, the bill aims to empower parents and guardians to select educational institutions that best meet their children's unique requirements. The impact of HB 2361 could potentially reshape the landscape of education in the state, affecting how schools are funded and operated while encouraging competition among institutions to improve quality and performance.

Summary

House Bill 2361 introduces significant reforms in the state's education system, primarily focusing on funding allocation and enhancing school choice options for families. The bill proposes changes to the current funding formula, advocating for a more equitable distribution of resources among schools to ensure all students have access to quality education. Supporters argue this change is essential for addressing disparities that have long affected underprivileged districts and enhancing overall educational outcomes across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2361 is mixed, reflecting both support and opposition from various stakeholders. Advocates, including many parent and education advocacy groups, view the bill positively, praising its intent to level the playing field and provide parents with more options in choosing the right educational path for their children. Conversely, critics, particularly those affiliated with traditional public school systems, express concerns that the bill may divert necessary funds from already under-resourced schools, exacerbating existing inequalities rather than alleviating them.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 2361 revolves around the shifts in funding methodologies and implications for local control over educational decisions. Some legislators argue that increasing school choice options is essential for fostering innovation and accountability in education, while opponents contend that such measures could undermine public schools' stability and funding. Debates center on whether the overall goal of improving student outcomes can be achieved through school choice without compromising the quality of public education.

Companion Bills

TX SB1375

Identical Relating to a study and report by the Sunset Advisory Commission of the self-directed semi-independent status of state agencies.

Similar Bills

TX SB1375

Relating to a study and report by the Sunset Advisory Commission of the self-directed semi-independent status of state agencies.

TX HB2092

Relating to self-directed and semi-independent status of certain health care regulatory agencies; making an appropriation.

TX SB1000

Relating to self-directed and semi-independent status of the Texas Real Estate Commission; making an appropriation.

TX SB624

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Real Estate Commission and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board; changing fees.

TX SB1459

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Real Estate Commission and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board; changing fees.

TX HB1675

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Real Estate Commission and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board; changing fees.

TX HB1680

Relating to self-directed and semi-independent status of the Texas Real Estate Commission; making an appropriation.

TX HB1685

Relating to the continuation of the self-directed and semi-independent status of the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, the Texas Board of Professional Engineers, and the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners.