Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1900

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to funding for an open-enrollment charter school based on average amounts collected by school districts under the instructional facilities allotment and the existing debt allotment.

Impact

The passage of SB1900 would have particular implications for the funding structure of charter schools within the state education system. By linking charter school funding to the funding amounts received by district schools, it potentially enhances the financial resources available to these institutions. However, this reform is contingent on the Texas Legislature making specific appropriations to facilitate the implementation of these changes. The bill is designed to affect the funding structures for the school years 2015-2017, reflecting immediate fiscal considerations.

Summary

SB1900 is a legislative measure focused on funding for open-enrollment charter schools in Texas. The bill proposes that funding for these schools be determined based on the average amounts collected by independent school districts under the instructional facilities allotment and existing debt allotment. This shift aims to provide a more standardized funding formula that is directly tied to the revenue generated by traditional public school districts, which supporters argue could lead to more equitable funding for charter schools.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB1900 appears to be cautiously supportive, particularly from those involved in the charter school sector. Proponents of the bill argue that it offers a necessary adjustment to a funding system that has historically favored traditional public schools. Critics, however, may express concerns about equity, sustainability, and the implications for district schools that may see shifts in funding priorities as resources are redistributed toward charter schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to SB1900 revolve around the balance of funding between charter schools and traditional public schools. Advocates for charter schools often emphasize the necessity for equitable funding to support their growth and educational initiatives. Opponents might raise issues related to how this bill could impact existing public school funding and the broader implications of diverting funds to charter institutions that may not be held to the same regulatory standards. The debate could reflect larger discussions regarding the role of charter schools in the public education landscape.

Companion Bills

TX HB3392

Identical Relating to funding for an open-enrollment charter school based on certain ad valorem taxes collected by school districts.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1993

Relating to the authorization of independent school districts to use electronic means to notify parents of a student's academic performance.

TX HB1170

Relating to the applicability to open-enrollment charter schools of certain laws regarding local governments and political subdivisions.

TX HB3348

Relating to authorization by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for certain public junior colleges to offer baccalaureate degree programs.

TX HB1305

Relating to a program to provide a free or reduced-price breakfast to eligible students attending a public school and the method of determining the number of educationally disadvantaged students.

TX SB1216

Relating to providing for the review of certain county departments of education by the Sunset Advisory Commission.

TX SB674

Relating to instruction regarding mental health, substance abuse, and youth suicide in educator training programs.

TX SB1259

Relating to the development of an individualized education program for a child in public school.

TX SB161

Relating to a study regarding the costs of educating students of limited English proficiency in public schools.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.