Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB451

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

Caption

Relating to restrictions on access to certain personal online accounts through electronic communication devices by employers or public or private institutions of higher education; establishing an unlawful employment practice.

Impact

If passed, HB451 would significantly impact existing state education laws, particularly concerning how funding is allocated to public schools. The bill's implementation would alter the state's budgetary framework, requiring adjustments in financial planning and budget proposals submitted by educational authorities. This shift aims to address the long-standing issue of funding inequity, which has been a point of contention among various school districts and communities, particularly those in lower-income areas that struggle to provide adequate educational resources.

Summary

House Bill 451 aims to reform the existing education funding system within the state, addressing disparities in resource allocation among districts. The bill proposes to shift how state funds are distributed, with a focus on ensuring all students, regardless of their district's wealth, have equal access to quality education. By introducing a more equitable formula for funding, proponents believe that HB451 will enhance educational resources in underfunded areas, facilitating improved educational outcomes for disadvantaged communities.

Sentiment

There is a mixed sentiment surrounding HB451. Supporters, including education advocates, parents, and some legislators, commend the bill for its potential to bring about necessary change and create a fairer distribution of educational resources. They argue that equal funding opportunities are essential for promoting educational success across all demographics. On the other hand, critics may voice concerns regarding the impact of such funding reforms on wealthier districts, fearing that their resources could be reallocated to compensate for underperforming schools elsewhere, which may lead to local pushback.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve debates about the definitions of 'adequate education' and how funding should be prioritized. Some lawmakers advocate for additional provisions to ensure accountability in fund allocation, while others push for a more streamlined process that emphasizes local control of educational spending. The debates may also touch upon the implications of state versus local governance concerning educational policy, reflecting broader philosophical divides regarding education funding and resource management.

Companion Bills

TX SB416

Identical Relating to restrictions on access to certain personal online accounts through electronic communication devices by employers or public or private institutions of higher education; establishing an unlawful employment practice.

Similar Bills

TX SB416

Relating to restrictions on access to certain personal online accounts through electronic communication devices by employers or public or private institutions of higher education; establishing an unlawful employment practice.

TX HB4909

Relating to the creation of the My Texas Future portal and a requirement to submit academic information through that portal to determine acceptance for admission at a public institution of higher education as a condition of high school graduation for public school students.

TX SB2314

Relating to the creation of an electronic platform and submission portal, known as My Texas Future, to facilitate public high school students' awareness of and application to institutions of higher education using the electronic common admission application form.

LA HB340

Creates the Personal Online Account Privacy Protection Act (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)

LA HB314

Creates the Personal Online Account Privacy Protection Act (RE NO IMPACT See Note)

WV HB4355

Relating to the disclosure by state institutions of higher education of certain information regarding textbooks and digital courseware and certain charges assessed for those items

TX HB2490

Relating to student access to certain academic records held by a public institution of higher education or career school or college; authorizing fees.

TX SB2376

Relating to student access to certain academic records held by a public institution of higher education or career school or college; authorizing fees.