Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4010

Caption

Relating to school district transportation services; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The implementation of HB 4010 represents a significant shift in how school districts can manage transportation services financially. By allowing the introduction of fees, districts may now have additional revenue streams that can be crucial for maintaining or improving transportation systems. This change is particularly important given the constraints faced by many school budgets, and it aims to balance the need for adequate transportation with the realities of school funding. However, it maintains a degree of equity by mandating that districts establish procedures for waiving fees for economically disadvantaged students, thereby attempting to minimize the financial burden on those families.

Summary

House Bill 4010 pertains to school district transportation services and authorizes the imposition of fees for these services. The bill amends the Education Code to allow independent school districts to charge fees associated with transportation for students living within certain distances from their schools, provided that such fees do not exceed specified limits and that fee waivers or reductions are offered for students who qualify as socioeconomically disadvantaged. The inclusion of this measure aims to provide more funding flexibility for school districts in managing transportation costs while ensuring that assistance is available for lower-income students.

Contention

The bill has generated discussion regarding the appropriateness of charging fees for transportation services that were previously provided at no cost. Supporters argue that the measure enables schools to better fund their transportation needs in light of decreased state funding. In contrast, opponents express concerns that introducing fees could deter attendance or impose additional financial strain on families, particularly those already struggling financially. Critics of the bill cite potential barriers to education access that arise from fee-based services, emphasizing the importance of keeping education affordable and accessible for all students.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 SB1861

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX HB3141

TX HB681

TX HB1605

Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.