Texas House Bill HB2337

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to funding for an open-enrollment charter school based on the guaranteed level of state and local funds provided to school districts through the existing debt allotment.

Impact

If enacted, HB2337 would have significant implications for the financing of education in Texas. This change is poised to offer charter schools the same financial guarantees that public school districts currently receive, potentially altering the competitive landscape between charter schools and traditional public schools. Proponents of the bill argue that it could lead to improved educational outcomes for students by allowing charter schools to access the same level of resources as their district counterparts, thus leveling the playing field in educational funding.

Summary

House Bill 2337 aims to amend the Education Code to set a funding structure for open-enrollment charter schools in Texas. Specifically, the bill proposes that these charter schools receive funding per student that equals the guaranteed level of state and local funds provided to school districts. This funding would be based on a formula that includes the tax effort of school districts along with their average interest and sinking fund tax rates. The intent behind this legislation is to create a more predictable and equitable funding environment for charter schools, aligning their financial resources with traditional public schools.

Contention

There may be potential contention surrounding the implications of providing charter schools with substantial state funding. Opponents of the bill might argue that this would siphon essential funding away from public school districts, which are already facing budget constraints. Critics could contend that this legislation prioritizes charter schools over the needs of existing public schools, which might exacerbate inequalities in the education system. Consequently, debates surrounding the bill could focus on the balance between funding for charter schools and traditional public education.