Texas House Bill HB3406

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of a mobile Internet access hotspot grant program to provide grants to facilitate distance learning for public school students.

Impact

The implementation of HB3406 is expected to enhance educational opportunities for students who previously lacked access to mobile Internet resources. By prioritizing grants for districts that serve high numbers of low-income students, the bill aims to bridge the digital divide that has been exacerbated by the shift to online education during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative could lead to improved academic performance and engagement among students, fostering a more equitable educational landscape.

Summary

House Bill 3406 establishes a mobile Internet access hotspot grant program aimed at supporting public school students in distance learning. The bill mandates the creation of this program within the Education Code and specifies that grants will be provided to eligible school districts. The grants are designed to facilitate access to mobile Internet for students, particularly targeting low-income families who may struggle to obtain adequate connectivity for online learning.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed positively in the context of improving educational access, discussions around funding and implementation have raised some concerns. Critics worry about the sustainability of the funding sources, as the bill allows the commissioner to solicit contributions from various public and private entities, potentially leading to uneven support across different districts. Furthermore, questions surrounding the adequacy of Internet access in rural areas and how the devices will be distributed to students are notable points of contention.