Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3548

Caption

Relating to the applicability of certain immunity and liability laws to the nonprofit corporation established by the Texas Public Finance Authority to issue revenue bonds to open-enrollment charter schools for those schools to provide educational facilities.

Impact

The passage of HB3548 would significantly impact how liability is handled for the nonprofit corporations linked to the TPFA. By classifying the corporation as a governmental unit, it restricts liabilities similar to those faced by school districts under Texas law. This means that individuals involved in the governance and management of these corporations would have protection from personal liability associated with actions taken in the course of their duties. This limitation aims to foster an environment where individuals may engage in governance without the fear of personal financial repercussions arising from legal actions.

Summary

House Bill 3548 aims to define the applicability of certain immunity and liability laws to a nonprofit corporation established by the Texas Public Finance Authority (TPFA). This corporation is responsible for issuing revenue bonds to support open-enrollment charter schools in providing educational facilities. The bill seeks to clarify that this corporation is considered a governmental unit under Texas law, which affects how it is liable for damages and limits the personal liability of its directors, officers, and employees due to their actions performed in their official capacities.

Contention

While HB3548 received overwhelming support during voting, the implications of designating the nonprofit corporation as a governmental unit could lead to discussions about accountability and transparency. Some may argue that providing such immunity can potentially shield the corporation's actions from scrutiny, which could raise concerns about governance within charter schools. It suggests a balancing act between facilitating educational finance through lower liability risks and ensuring that there are adequate checks on the oversight of charter schooling entities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1707

Relating to the applicability of certain laws to open-enrollment charter schools.

TX SB472

Relating to the applicability of certain laws to open-enrollment charter schools.

TX HB4977

Relating to the operation of open-enrollment charter schools, including enrollment procedures and the applicability of certain laws to open-enrollment charter schools.

TX HB983

Relating to the applicability of certain laws to open-enrollment charter schools.

TX HB5095

Relating to the applicability of certain laws governing public school discipline and law and order to open-enrollment charter schools.

TX HB5092

Relating to formation, funding, and support of and the applicability of certain laws to charter schools.

TX HB2203

Relating to the management, operation, and contract authority of open-enrollment charter schools.

TX HB5257

Relating to the applicability of certain collective bargaining laws to certain public school employees, school districts, and open-enrollment charter schools.

TX HB2202

Relating to the financial audit of certain open-enrollment charter schools by the state auditor.

TX HB1858

Relating to the applicability to open-enrollment charter schools of certain law regarding travel expenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.