Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2916

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

Caption

Relating to the appointment of a bailiff by district courts and county courts at law in Bowie County.

Impact

The legislation would significantly alter state laws related to school funding formulas, potentially increasing funding for lower-income districts while modifying the amount allocated to wealthier areas. This redistribution could lead to improved infrastructures, better educational resources, and potentially higher teacher salaries in struggling districts. The bill is expected to provide a framework for long-term investment in education, prioritizing the needs of disadvantaged students and allowing for better academic outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 2916 focuses on the reform of educational funding in the state, aiming to address disparities in resource allocation among school districts. The primary goal of the bill is to ensure that all students have access to quality education, regardless of their geographic location or the economic status of their school district. By redistributing funding in a manner that favors underfunded schools, the bill seeks to create a more equitable educational landscape. Supporters argue that this is essential for improving overall student performance and closing achievement gaps between different demographics.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2916 is largely positive among educators and advocates for educational equity, who view it as a necessary step toward dismantling systemic inequalities in the education system. However, dissenting voices, particularly from more affluent districts, express concerns about the potential for a decrease in funding and resources for their schools. This disagreement reflects a broader tension between the ideals of equitable resource distribution and the realities of funding constraints in the state’s education budget.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the specifics of the funding formula changes and the potential unintended consequences of such a shift. Opponents of the bill raise concerns that a heavy-handed approach to redistribute funding might inadvertently diminish the quality of education in wealthier districts, which could negatively impact their student populations. Additionally, lawmakers must weigh the bill's fiscal implications on the overall state budget and ensure sustainable funding sources are in place to support these proposed changes.

Companion Bills

TX SB2174

Identical Relating to the appointment of a bailiff by district courts and county courts at law in Bowie County.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3386

Relating to the criminal district courts, statutory county courts, and criminal law magistrates in Tarrant County.

TX HB5378

Relating to the jurisdiction and operation of the county courts at law in McLennan County.

TX SB2573

Relating to the jurisdiction of the 411th District Court and of the County Court at Law of Polk County.

TX SB599

Relating to the carrying or possession of a handgun by a district or county clerk and the issuance of a handgun license to a district or county clerk.

TX HB1436

Relating to the redesignation of County Court at Law No. 2 of Montgomery County as Probate Court No. 1 of Montgomery County, the jurisdiction and authority of statutory probate courts in Montgomery County, and the composition of the Montgomery County Juvenile Board.

TX HB2998

Relating to the County Court at Law of Aransas County.

TX SB1069

Relating to the County Court at Law of Aransas County.

TX SB373

Relating to creation of an additional county court at law in Waller County and the redesignation of the County Court at Law of Waller County as County Court at Law No. 1 of Waller County.

TX HB103

Relating to the appointment of a retired or former judge as a visiting judge in certain counties.

TX SB1173

Relating to the appointment of criminal law hearing officers and of a special presiding judge and associate judges for certain courts.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.