Texas Senate Bill SB1116

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a study regarding the costs of educating students with disabilities in public schools.

Impact

Should the study reveal that the existing special education funding is inadequate, the bill requires a determination of the appropriate adjustment to the special education allotment necessary to ensure that schools can effectively address the educational needs of students with disabilities. This analysis and reporting process is intended to provide a solid basis for future legislative decisions regarding educational funding, specifically concerning special education services.

Summary

SB1116 is a legislative act aimed at conducting a study regarding the costs associated with educating students with disabilities in public schools. The bill mandates that the Texas Education Agency examines the financial implications of providing educational services to students with disabilities. Central to this study is an examination of whether the current special education allotment under Section 42.151 is sufficient to meet the diverse educational needs of these students.

Contention

A key aspect of SB1116 is the timeline for the study's completion, with the Texas Education Agency required to prepare and submit a report by November 1, 2018. The findings will be delivered to legislative committees that oversee primary and secondary education, thus facilitating informed discussions and potential policy changes. Given the timeframe of the act, this could lead to crucial adjustments in state funding formulas if shortcomings in current funding systems are confirmed, thereby potentially affecting the operational budgets of public schools across Texas.