Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3591

Caption

Relating to the creation of a high-speed Internet access grant program to facilitate instruction and learning for public school students.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3591 would amend the Education Code to facilitate the creation of this program, with a focus on increasing high-speed Internet accessibility in educational settings. Grant applications from districts would be evaluated based on existing internet access, alternative funding, and budgeted plans for improvements. Additionally, the bill incorporates provisions for the negotiation of favorable terms and costs with internet service providers as part of the funding strategy, potentially unlocking better service options for schools.

Summary

House Bill 3591 proposes the establishment of a high-speed Internet access grant program aimed at facilitating instruction and learning for public school students in Texas. This legislation seeks to provide financial assistance to school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to ensure students have access to high-speed internet, which is increasingly essential for effective education, especially in today's digital landscape. The program, managed by the education commissioner, will aim to connect students both at school facilities and their home environments, addressing the often significant digital divide faced by many students.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 3591 appears to be positive among education advocates who view it as a crucial step toward modernizing school infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to learning resources. Legislators supporting the bill argue that investing in high-speed internet is vital for enhancing educational outcomes, preparing students for a technology-driven future. However, some concerns may arise over the implementation and sustainability of the grant program, especially regarding budget allocation and oversight.

Contention

While there is overall support for increased internet access, discussions around the reliability of funding—whether it will be sufficient and consistent—remain important. There may also be concerns regarding how effectively the program can identify and prioritize the most underserved districts and schools. Furthermore, ensuring that the providers selected for the program maintain high-quality service and reasonable pricing will be crucial for the long-term success of the initiatives under HB 3591.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2162

Relating to reading instruction, assessment instruments, and interventions provided to public school students.

TX SB2565

Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and creating allotments for the procurement of certain instructional materials under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.

TX HB82

Relating to a parent-directed supplemental services and instructional materials program for public school students; authorizing a fee.

TX SB8

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB5261

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1605

Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4969

Relating to a parent-directed supplemental services and instructional materials program for public school students; establishing an allotment under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.

TX HB2721

Relating to accelerated and supplemental instruction provided to public school students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments and access to criminal history record information for certain tutors providing that instruction.

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