Relating to the establishment by school districts of a school security district; authorizing school district taxes for crime prevention measures.
Impact
The bill potentially alters the way public safety is funded within school districts by introducing a mechanism for local taxation to support security measures. School districts can opt to implement a sales and use tax or an ad valorem tax for these purposes, provided such measures receive majority support from voters in the district. The funds raised will be limited to direct crime prevention efforts, which could include hiring security personnel, installing surveillance equipment, or increasing safety training programs.
Summary
SB509 establishes the framework for school districts in Texas to create school security districts, allowing them to impose taxes specifically aimed at enhancing crime prevention measures within their jurisdiction. The bill dictates that the creation of such a district is contingent upon voter approval, which empowers local communities to decide on the need for enhanced security funding. The governing body for each security district will be the respective school district's board of trustees, who will have the authority to manage the funds and implement crime prevention strategies effectively.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB509 appears to reflect a proactive approach to enhancing school safety. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary tools for school districts to create a safer environment for students and staff, especially in response to growing concerns about school safety incidents. However, there may also be apprehension from some segments of the community regarding the financial impact of new local taxes and whether they are the best avenue for addressing safety concerns.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding SB509 hinges on the potential implications for local governance and tax burdens. Critics may argue that while the bill gives local control to districts, it simultaneously introduces a potential for increased financial strain on families and could lead to significant variations in security funding and practices among districts. Additionally, there exists a concern regarding the accountability of funds raised through these taxes and whether they will effectively translate into tangible improvements in school safety.
Enabling for
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing school districts to create school security districts and impose ad valorem taxes for crime prevention measures; authorizing a tax.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to the elimination of certain property taxes for school district maintenance and operations and the provision of public education funding by increasing the rates of certain state taxes.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.
Relating to a reduction in the maximum compressed tax rate of a school district and additional state aid for certain school districts impacted by compression.
Relating to a reduction in the maximum compressed tax rate of a school district and additional state aid for certain school districts impacted by compression.
Relating to a reduction in the maximum compressed tax rate of a school district and additional state aid for certain school districts impacted by compression, an increase in the amount of certain exemptions from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, an adjustment in the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in the exemption amounts, and the protection of school districts against the resulting loss in local revenue.
Relating to the time for dissolution of crime control and prevention districts and to certain taxes imposed by such districts or by fire control, prevention, and emergency medical services districts.