Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1788

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

Caption

Relating to state support for assistance with payment of existing debt on certain bonds issued by school districts.

Impact

The bill's changes will have a notable impact on how financial resources are allocated to schools. By adjusting the guaranteed amount of funding per student related to tax effort, school districts may find it easier to manage their debt obligations. For districts that face high debt levels, the changes could lead to a more sustainable financial situation, enabling them to possibly reduce tax rates or accelerate debt maturity, which can have downstream benefits for both the schools and the communities they serve. However, the success of these changes will depend on the overall budget for state funding and the tax capabilities of the districts.

Summary

House Bill 1788 addresses the state's support for school districts in managing their existing debt on bonds. The bill proposes amendments to the Education Code, specifically focusing on increasing the amount of state and local funds guaranteed per student based on the district's tax effort. It establishes a formula to determine the amount of state assistance that will be allocated to help school districts with their financial obligations related to eligible bonds. This initiative aims to alleviate some of the financial pressure faced by districts when servicing these debts.

Contention

While the bill seeks to enhance financial support for school districts, there are concerns regarding its long-term sustainability and the implications for state funding overall. Critics might argue that increasing reliance on state aid could lead to less local accountability in financial management. Additionally, the appropriations necessary to fund these increases may compete with other budgetary needs within the state. As the bill moves through the legislative process, dialogues surrounding its fiscal implications and the equitable distribution of funds among districts will likely arise.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2607

Relating to the use of tax collections in determining certain state and local responsibilities for school funding.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX HB5170

Relating to public school finance and public education.

TX HB4344

Relating to the state assistance with the payment of debt under the public school finance system.

TX SB2

Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.

TX SB57

Relating to the use of average enrollment for purposes of the public school finance system.

TX SB14

Relating to the use of average enrollment for purposes of the public school finance system.

TX HB31

Relating to the use of average enrollment for purposes of the public school finance system.

TX HB2841

Relating to the use of average enrollment for purposes of the public school finance system.

TX HB1376

Relating to the use of average enrollment for purposes of the public school finance system.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.