Texas House Bill HB1811

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the purchase of online library resources for primary and secondary schools by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

Impact

The passing of HB 1811 is expected to streamline the procurement process for digital resources in schools, improving access to necessary educational materials. By ensuring that all resources meet the standards adopted by the State Board of Education, the bill aims to maintain a high quality of content available to students. Furthermore, it creates a framework for holding vendors accountable through compliance checks, allowing the commission to withhold payments if standards are not met.

Summary

House Bill 1811 seeks to enhance the purchase of online library resources for primary and secondary schools by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. The bill mandates that the commission utilize funds appropriated to them, as well as any fees collected from school districts, to acquire online resources that align with standards set by the State Board of Education. Additionally, vendors providing these resources must ensure compliance with both state and federal standards, specifically those outlined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Contention

While HB 1811 introduces beneficial measures aimed at improving educational resources, it may also raise concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on vendors to prove compliance continually. Stakeholders in education and technology sectors may debate the implications of these compliance measures, questioning whether they impose unnecessary barriers to accessing diverse educational content. The legislation's success will potentially depend on how effectively the Texas State Library and Archives Commission implements the standards and oversight outlined in the bill.