Texas Senate Bill SB2

Texas 2023 - 88th 3rd C.S.

• Filed: 10/9/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 10/10/23
• Voted on by Senate: 10/12/23

Caption

Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.

Impact

If passed, SB 2 would have a significant impact on state education laws by modifying funding structures under the public school finance system and establishing new teacher designation systems. The local optional teacher designation system permits districts to classify teachers into designations that can positively affect salary scales. Furthermore, it proposes increased funding allocations for specific districts as well as a guaranteed yield under the public school finance system. The bill seeks to address disparities in funding, particularly in rural areas, by increasing allocations intended for lower enrollment districts, which proponents claim will foster equitable access to resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 2, titled 'Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district,' aims to enhance public school funding and teacher incentives in Texas. The bill proposes an increase in the basic allotment per student from $10 to $20, in addition to approximately $1.2 billion for education across the biennium. Notably, the legislation includes provisions for a one-time bonus payment for teachers, depending upon district enrollment sizes, highlighting a commitment to enhancing teacher compensation and retention. Supporters tout these changes as a vital investment in Texas education systems, aimed at improving educational standards and teacher morale.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 2 appears to be generally positive among proponents, primarily lawmakers aligned with the Republican party. They characterize it as a landmark measure that strengthens commitments to public education and educators. However, the bill has drawn opposition from various advocacy groups who argue that it could exacerbate existing disparities and express concerns regarding how effectively the new allocations would reach those rural districts most in need. Overall, the sentiments reflect a divide between those advocating for increased state control over funding and those emphasizing local governance in educational policy.

Contention

Notable contention around SB 2 arises from debates on the efficiency of the proposed funding increments and their implications on local autonomy in education governance. Critics raised concerns that while the bill aims to increase funding, the new regulations may limit local districts' ability to make autonomous decisions tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, some stakeholders argue that the bill may perpetuate a reliance on state funding that fails to adequately address the multifaceted challenges facing rural education. The balance between centralized education funding and local control remains a pivotal point of discussion.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 21. Educators
  • Section: 3521
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 3521
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 3521
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 112
  • Section: 115
  • Section: 277
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 112
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 112

• Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
  • Section: 0814
  • Section: 0814

Government Code

• Chapter 822. Membership
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section