Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1544

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

Caption

Relating to payment of and disclosures related to certain ambulatory surgical center charges.

Impact

The possible enactment of SB1544 would significantly alter state laws regarding educational funding and district-level governance. By shifting the focus towards equitable funding, it may force local districts to reassess their budgets and resource allocation strategies. This bill could challenge existing policies that favor wealthier districts, thereby promoting a more balanced educational landscape statewide. The potential financial redistribution could enhance educational outcomes for disadvantaged schools, promoting a more inclusive educational environment for all students.

Summary

SB1544 is a proposed legislation aimed at reforming the funding mechanisms for public education in the state. The bill focuses on redistributing educational resources to ensure that all students have equitable access to quality education, regardless of their local district's wealth. It proposes a new formula for resource allocation that emphasizes the needs of low-income areas, thereby addressing historic inequities in the current funding system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1544 appears largely favorable among education advocates and low-income community organizations who believe that the reforms are critical for closing the educational gap across the state. However, there is also considerable opposition from representatives of wealthier districts who argue that the bill could undermine the quality of education in their areas. Critics contended that a one-size-fits-all approach to funding could lead to decreased resources for schools that already perform well, potentially lowering educational standards.

Contention

Key points of contention in the discussions around SB1544 include the perception of fairness in the redistribution of funds and the effectiveness of the proposed funding formula. Supporters argue it promotes necessary equality, while opponents express concerns about the bill's feasibility and the risk of diminishing educational quality in districts that are currently successful. The debate highlights the tensions between improving educational opportunities for all students and protecting the interests of districts that are already well-funded.

Companion Bills

TX HB3269

Identical Relating to payment of and disclosures related to certain ambulatory surgical center charges.

Similar Bills

TX HB2336

Relating to payment of and disclosures related to certain ambulatory surgical center charges.

TX SB1614

Relating to payment of and disclosures related to certain ambulatory surgical center charges.

TX HB3269

Relating to payment of and disclosures related to certain ambulatory surgical center charges.

TX HB1901

Relating to payment of out-of-network ambulatory surgery benefits by certain health benefit plans.

TX SB1746

Relating to payment of out-of-network ambulatory surgery benefits by certain health benefit plans.

TX HB2697

Relating to payment of out-of-network ambulatory surgery benefits by certain health benefit plans.

TX SB1495

Relating to payment of out-of-network ambulatory surgery benefits by certain health benefit plans.

IN HB1639

Stillbirths.