Relating to making supplemental appropriations for education initiatives, institutions, and related agencies and giving direction regarding appropriations.
Impact
The appropriations stipulated in HB 160 are intended for a two-year period and are categorized as one-time appropriations. This legislation is crucial for enhancing mental health initiatives for children in Texas through the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium. The bill outlines specific funding allocations for various mental health programs, including enhancements to telemedicine and workforce expansion aimed at improving child and adolescent mental health services across the state.
Summary
House Bill 160 seeks to allocate supplemental appropriations for various education initiatives and related agencies. The bill specifically aims to utilize funds from the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund established under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Its primary beneficiaries include the Teacher Retirement System and the Higher Education Coordinating Board, addressing funding needs exacerbated by the pandemic. The bill emphasizes the importance of not increasing premiums for health insurance related to the Teacher Retirement System due to COVID-19 claims, thereby aiming to protect educators' healthcare costs.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding the bill is the governance over the appropriated funds. HB 160 establishes a detailed direction on how these funds should be utilized, ensuring that they are applied in accordance with state and federal laws. There are stringent measures in place for monitoring the use of appropriated funds, particularly in ensuring the appropriations serve their intended purposes. Detractors may voice concerns over the centralized control of these appropriations and the potential lack of responsiveness to local needs in education and health sectors.
Relating to the supplemental appropriation and reductions in appropriation and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriation for the development of a statewide broadband infrastructure for new transportation technology.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.
Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.