Texas House Bill HB202

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a study regarding the costs of educating educationally disadvantaged students and students of limited English proficiency in public schools.

Impact

The outcomes of the study mandated by HB202 are expected to have significant implications for state education laws. If the findings reveal that current funding is insufficient, the bill proposes adjustments to the compensatory education and bilingual education allotments. This could lead to an increase in state funding specifically designated for educational programs that cater to the unique challenges faced by at-risk students and non-native English speakers, promoting more inclusive educational practices across Texas public schools.

Summary

House Bill 202 focuses on conducting a study to assess the costs associated with educating students who are educationally disadvantaged and those with limited English proficiency in public schools. This initiative aims to evaluate whether the existing funding mechanisms, such as the compensatory education allotment and bilingual education allotment, adequately meet the needs of these student populations. By investigating these funding sources, the bill seeks to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students in Texas, particularly those at a disadvantage.

Contention

While the bill itself marks an important step toward addressing educational disparities, it is likely to provoke discussions regarding the adequacy of state funding for education in general. Concerns may arise about the overall budget implications of increasing these allotments, as well as debates among stakeholders on how best to implement changes based on the study's recommendations. Educational advocacy groups might support the bill for its potential to enhance resources for disadvantaged students, while some lawmakers could voice concerns about fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of educational funding within the state budget.