Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB140

Filed
11/10/14  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to a sales and use tax exemption for telecommunications services used for the navigation of certain farm and ranch machinery and equipment.

Impact

If passed, SB140 will significantly alter the existing state laws governing educational funding and operations. This includes changes in the way allocations are calculated and distributed to school districts, with a shift towards more localized control. By ensuring that funds are directed towards districts that require more resources, the bill aims to raise the overall educational performance across the state. As a result, this could lead to improved classroom environments, increased support for teachers, and ultimately, better outcomes for students in both urban and rural areas.

Summary

SB140 focuses on enhancing educational standards and funding mechanisms within the state’s school systems. The bill includes provisions aimed at addressing classroom sizes, teacher recruitment, and retention while ensuring that funding is allocated equitably among school districts. The essence of the bill is to bolster the quality of education provided, making adjustments to how funds are distributed based on the needs of various districts rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Supporters argue that the bill will create more robust educational environments that directly benefit students and teachers alike.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB140 is largely supportive among educational organizations, teachers, and many parents, who view the bill as a necessary step in improving education quality. They believe that the bill adequately addresses long-standing issues such as the disparity in funding and the need for smaller classroom sizes. Conversely, some critics, including a segment of lawmakers, argue that the bill may overreach in local governance by imposing state mandates that do not take into account the unique needs of different districts. This skepticism is rooted in concerns that diverse educational environments may not benefit from uniform solutions.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding SB140 include debates over the balance between state mandates and local control. Critics have expressed worries that the centralization of certain funding decisions may limit the ability of local districts to tailor solutions to their specific needs. Additionally, there are discussions about the effectiveness of the proposed funding levels and whether they will indeed resolve the existing disparities or simply shift the problem elsewhere. Advocates argue that without some standardization, the quality of education could vary too widely, further disadvantaging certain student populations.

Companion Bills

TX HB85

Identical Relating to a sales and use tax exemption for telecommunications services used for the navigation of certain farm and ranch machinery and equipment.

Similar Bills

CA AB2106

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CA AB778

Institutional purchasers: purchase of California-grown agricultural food products.

CA SB1308

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CA AB1025

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CA AB822

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HI HB1584

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HI SB2363

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HI HB498

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