By: Herrero H.B. No. 3260
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a study and report regarding the use of open-source
instructional materials at public schools.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter A, Chapter 31, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 31.006 to read as follows:
Sec. 31.006. A STUDY ON USE OF OPEN-SOURCE INSTRUCTIONAL
MATERIALS. (a) The commissioner shall select a center for
education research authorized by Section 1.005 to conduct a study
regarding the use of open-source instructional materials at public
schools. The study must include:
(1) an analysis of any impact that the use of
open-source instructional materials has on:
(A) the cost of other instructional materials;
(B) the operating costs for schools;
(C) teacher autonomy in the classroom; and
(D) instructional materials choice.
(2) any difference in the quality of content or effect
on the learning process between open-source instructional
materials and other instructional materials; and
(3) an evaluation of information from other states
that have implemented the use of open-source instructional
materials at similar schools regarding:
(A) the benefits realized and costs incurred from
the use of those materials; and
(B) best practices for the use of those
materials.
(4) an analysis of potential contributors in creating
open-source instructional materials including, but not limited to:
(A) institutions of higher education;
(B) school districts; and
(C) independent non-profit organizations.
(b) Not later than September 1, 2016, the agency shall
submit to each legislative standing committee with primary
jurisdiction over public education the results of its study under
this section and recommendations for legislative or other action.
(c) This section expires September 1, 2017.
S
ECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2015.