Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SB97

Caption

Relating to the dedication of a portion of state lottery proceeds to the funding of salary increases and bonuses for experienced public school classroom teachers and costs associated with school district teacher retirement contributions.

Impact

This legislation could significantly impact the funding structure of public education in Texas, as it directly ties a part of the state's lottery proceeds to salary enhancements and retirement contributions. By prioritizing experienced teachers, SB97 aims to reward retention and stability within the teaching workforce, potentially improving educational outcomes in Texas schools. The bill reflects state investment in human capital within the education sector, warranting a potential uplift in teacher performance and student success.

Summary

Senate Bill 97 seeks to allocate a portion of the state's lottery revenue specifically to enhance the compensation of public school teachers in Texas. The bill focuses on providing salary increases for those teachers who have at least six years of teaching experience. Furthermore, it extends its benefits towards covering costs associated with retirement contributions for school district personnel, demonstrating a commitment to both financial rewards for educational professionals and long-term sustainable employment benefits.

Contention

While the bill largely aims to support educators, it may face scrutiny regarding the sustainability of funding from lottery revenues. Critics might raise concerns over whether the lottery can continue to provide dependable funding given its nature, which can be inconsistent. Additionally, some lawmakers may argue for broader education reforms that do not solely rely on lottery funds, pushing for comprehensive solutions to address teacher pay and educational funding beyond the constraints of gambling proceeds.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2485

Relating to mentors assigned to classroom teachers in public schools.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX HB192

Relating to the reimbursement of certain school district classroom teachers for the cost of classroom supplies purchased with personal money.

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX HB189

Relating to requiring a school district to reimburse classroom teachers at certain grade levels for the cost of classroom supplies purchased with personal money.

TX HB2438

Relating to requiring a school district to reimburse classroom teachers at certain grade levels for the cost of classroom supplies purchased with personal money.

TX HB2929

Relating to continuing education and training requirements for classroom teachers and public school counselors.

TX SB2318

Relating to continuing education and training requirements for classroom teachers and public school counselors.

TX HB108

Relating to the issuance of specialty license plates for certain classroom teachers and retired classroom teachers; imposing fees.

TX SB1474

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.