Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB548

Filed
12/18/14  
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the consideration of criminal history record information regarding applicants for state employment.

Impact

The introduction of HB 548 is expected to significantly influence state laws concerning educational funding and resource distribution among school districts. It proposes to amend current statutes to facilitate a more equitable allocation of funds, particularly benefiting districts that have faced chronic underfunding. By prioritizing resource distribution based on actual student needs and local community conditions, the bill aims to level the playing field for schools serving low-income families, thereby promoting higher educational outcomes statewide.

Summary

House Bill 548 focuses on the enhancement of educational funding mechanisms within the state. It aims to provide additional resources to struggling school districts, particularly those in economically disadvantaged areas, by increasing state allocations for education. The bill emphasizes the importance of equitable funding, ensuring that all students have access to quality educational opportunities regardless of their locality. A key provision includes the establishment of a new funding formula that adjusts based on enrollment numbers and local economic conditions, creating a more needs-based approach to educational financing.

Sentiment

Support for HB 548 has been strong among education advocates, community leaders, and many legislators who recognize the importance of equitable education funding. They view the bill as a necessary step to rectify systemic disparities in educational resources. However, there are dissenting voices, particularly from opponents concerned about the sustainability of increased state funding and the potential burden on taxpayers. This tension highlights the ongoing debate about educational financing and the responsibility of the state in ensuring adequate resources for all students.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 548 include the proposed funding mechanisms and the criteria for determining which districts would benefit most from the increased resources. Critics argue that the bill may inadvertently create disparities if certain districts are favored over others based on subjective measures. Questions also arose regarding the long-term implications of sustained funding increases, with some legislators advocating for a more cautious approach to budget allocation for education. These discussions point to underlying concerns about fiscal responsibility versus the urgent need for educational reform.

Companion Bills

TX SB376

Similar Relating to the consideration of criminal history record information regarding applicants for employment.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3246

Relating to inquiries about and the consideration of criminal history record information regarding applicants for employment.

TX SB1976

Relating to the consideration of criminal history record information of applicants for public employment or an occupational license.

TX HB1215

Relating to consideration of criminal history of applicants for public employment.

TX HB1219

Relating to criminal history record information checks for applicants for employment and employees of group homes; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB188

Relating to criminal history record information checks for applicants for employment and employees of group homes; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4123

Relating to access to and use of certain criminal history record information.

TX SB1785

Relating to the dissemination of criminal history record information by the Department of Public Safety.

TX HB3198

Relating to criminal history record information and certain registry information accessible to certain educational and child-care entities and information required for employment in certain child-care facilities.

TX SB1473

Relating to criminal history record information and certain registry information accessible to certain educational and child-care entities and information required for employment in certain child-care facilities.

TX HB1184

Relating to access to criminal history record information for use in certain research or statistical projects.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.