Texas Senate Bill SB326

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the salary paid to certain professional employees of public schools.

Impact

The impact of SB326 on state laws is significant, as it modifies existing salary structures within the Education Code. By establishing a minimum salary threshold, it not only strengthens the financial stability of these critical educational roles but also aligns with the state's efforts to attract and retain qualified professionals in public schools. The bill places a strong emphasis on teacher salary continuity, which could lead to better staffing levels in schools and potentially improve student outcomes through a more stable teaching environment.

Summary

SB326 addresses the salaries of certain professional employees in public schools in Texas, specifically targeting classroom teachers, librarians, school counselors, and school nurses. The bill mandates that for the 2019-2020 school year, these professionals must receive a monthly salary that is at least equal to the amount they would have earned under the previous year's salary schedule, along with an additional $400. This provision is aimed at ensuring that these employees do not see a decrease in their salaries compared to the previous year, providing them with a baseline salary guarantee.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB326 may arise from debates regarding the sufficiency of the additional $400, especially in the context of the overall funding for education in Texas. Critics may argue that while the bill intends to safeguard salaries, it does not address broader issues of education funding and may not be sufficient to meet the living wage needs of public school employees. Furthermore, concerns may be raised about how this mandate will be financed, particularly in districts already struggling with budget constraints. Overall, the bill represents a step towards recognizing the importance of competitive salaries in the education sector, but it must be balanced with careful consideration of state funding capabilities.