Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3604

Caption

Relating to the guarantee by the permanent school fund of bonds issued by a charter district on the approval of the Bond Review Board.

Impact

The implications of HB 3604 are significant, as it modifies the existing rules within the Texas Education Code regarding bond guarantees. By allowing charter districts greater access to guaranteed funding, the bill may facilitate improved financial stability and growth for these schools. Importantly, the measure introduces stringent standards concerning the academic and financial performance of charter schools, ensuring that only those meeting certain criteria can benefit from the bond guarantees. This could provide a robust framework for managing the financial responsibilities of charter schools and safeguarding state resources.

Summary

House Bill 3604 seeks to enhance the financial framework related to bonds issued by charter districts in Texas. The bill permits the Bond Review Board to approve guarantees for bonds issued by charter districts, contingent upon meeting specific financial standards. This includes the requirement for open-enrollment charter schools to obtain an investment-grade credit rating prior to the approval of any bond guarantees. This legislative measure aims to streamline the bond issuance process for charter districts, ultimately allowing them to secure funding for necessary projects, expanding educational opportunities within such institutions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 3604 may stem from concerns over the increased financial autonomy given to charter districts. Opponents may argue that while the bill could promote access to funding, it also risks exacerbating disparities if the financial standards and educational outcomes vary widely among charter schools. Additionally, the oversight required by the Bond Review Board might raise concerns regarding bureaucratic delays or complexities, which could impede the timely access to funds needed for operational continuity or expansion. As discussion progresses, the balance between regulation and support for charter schools will be a focal point for legislators.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2824

Relating to requiring an open-enrollment charter school to conduct an efficiency audit before applying for designation as a charter district or for the guarantee of certain bonds.

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 SB2

Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented 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 HB5092

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

TX HB2784

Relating to the issuance of certain bonds by municipal utility districts.

TX HB2911

Relating to approval by voters prior to the issuance of revenue bonds by the San Jacinto River Authority.

TX HB38

Relating to the elimination of certain property taxes for school district maintenance and operations and the provision of public education funding by increasing the rates of certain state taxes.

TX HB4344

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

TX HB4597

Relating to the requiring the approval of a school district for the grant of a charter for an open-enrollment charter school.

TX HB116

Relating to the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, certain allotments under the Foundation School Program, determination of a school district's assets to liabilities ratio under the public school financial accountability rating system, and credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.

Similar Bills

TX SB31

Relating to the guarantee of open-enrollment charter school bonds by the permanent school fund.

TX SB597

Relating to the guarantee of open-enrollment charter school bonds by the permanent school fund.

TX HB1437

Relating to the guarantee of open-enrollment charter school bonds by the permanent school fund.

TX HB2894

Relating to additional guarantees for certain bonds issued by school districts.

TX SB1255

Relating to a state intercept credit enhancement program for certain bonds issued by school districts.

TX SB1480

Relating to the guarantee of school district and charter district bonds by the permanent school fund.

TX HB467

Relating to the guarantee of school district and charter district bonds by the permanent school fund.

TX SB90

Relating to the financing of school district facilities and tax relief for facilities debt.