Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1161

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

Caption

Relating to health benefit plan coverage of prescription contraceptive drugs.

Impact

If passed, HB 1161 would significantly influence state education laws, particularly concerning how schools are funded and evaluated. It seeks to provide a more comprehensive assessment framework that looks beyond standard test scores to include factors such as student engagement and community involvement. Proponents believe that this holistic approach could lead to better resources for schools and ultimately improve educational outcomes for students who are currently underserved by the system. Conversely, funding shifts could also lead to tension among school districts competing for resources.

Summary

House Bill 1161 aims to reform the current educational funding system by introducing new frameworks for assessing school performance based on various metrics. The bill emphasizes the importance of equitable funding and resources allocation to ensure that all students have access to quality education. It proposes adjustments to existing funding formulas and introduces new criteria for evaluating schools, potentially impacting resource distribution among districts across the state. By prioritizing funding for underperforming schools and those serving disadvantaged populations, the bill seeks to foster educational equity.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1161 has been mixed among lawmakers and educational stakeholders. Supporters, including various educational advocacy groups, argue that the bill represents a necessary step towards equitable education funding and a commitment to improving the quality of education for all students. On the other hand, some lawmakers and those skeptical of the proposed metrics raise concerns about potential bureaucracy and the effectiveness of the new assessment criteria. They argue that the bill may not address underlying issues in education, such as socioeconomic disparities that affect student performance.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1161 include discussions on the feasibility of implementing the new assessment metrics and the potential consequences for schools currently receiving funding. Critics argue that the bill may exacerbate disparities if not thoroughly considered and balanced. Furthermore, debates have emerged around the role of standardized testing in evaluating school performance and the degree to which it should influence funding decisions. Advocates call for a balance between various assessment methods to ensure that changes are reflective of true student and school needs.

Companion Bills

TX HB940

Duplicate Relating to health benefit plan coverage of prescription contraceptive drugs.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.