Texas Senate Bill SB74

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

Relating to placing the State Board of Education under periodic review by the Sunset Advisory Commission.

Impact

The enactment of SB74 will have significant implications for the governance of education in Texas. By requiring the State Board of Education to undergo periodic reviews, the bill promotes transparency and responsiveness in education policy-making. This measure is expected to foster improvements in educational standards and practices, as the reviews will provide insights and recommendations that can guide future legislative efforts related to education.

Summary

SB74 aims to establish a systematic review process for the State Board of Education by placing it under the purview of the Sunset Advisory Commission. This action is intended to ensure that the board is evaluated periodically, with the first review scheduled in alignment with state agencies that are set for abolition in the year 2017 and every twelve years thereafter. The bill does not propose to abolish the board but seeks to enhance accountability and effectiveness in its operations through regular evaluations.

Contention

Notably, there may be contention surrounding the nature and outcomes of the reviews conducted by the Sunset Advisory Commission. Critics could argue that the process might lead to unnecessary bureaucratic oversight, potentially hampering the board's autonomy. Conversely, supporters of the bill contend that regular reviews will identify areas for improvement, thus benefiting the state's educational framework. The contrasting views highlight the tension between maintaining oversight and allowing educational authorities the flexibility to operate effectively.