Texas House Bill HB802

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the provision of a transportation allotment under the foundation school program based on the price of gasoline.

Impact

The enactment of HB 802 is expected to significantly impact how school districts budget for transportation costs. With a formula that takes into account the average gasoline prices, districts in areas with higher fuel costs may receive greater allotments. Additionally, this bill could help stabilize funding for school transportation over the years, especially in light of fluctuating fuel prices. For many rural districts with longer travel routes, this financial consideration could be crucial for maintaining safe and reliable transportation for students.

Summary

House Bill 802 seeks to amend the Education Code of Texas regarding the provision of transportation allotments under the foundation school program. Specifically, the bill introduces a calculated allotment based on the average price of gasoline over the preceding five years. This change is intended to reflect transportation costs more accurately and ensure that school districts have the necessary funding to maintain their transportation systems effectively. By linking the allotment to fuel prices, the bill aims to provide financial support that aligns with real-world expenses faced by schools.

Contention

In the legislative discussions surrounding HB 802, some points of contention arose regarding the reliance on fluctuating gas prices to determine funding. Critics voiced concerns about the volatility of gas prices and how that might impact school budgets unpredictably. Moreover, there were calls for more comprehensive funding structures that do not depend heavily on fuel costs alone. Supporters, however, argued that this method represents a fairer approach to addressing the unique circumstances of different school districts and their transportation needs.