Texas House Bill HB116

Texas 2023 - 88th 4th C.S.

• Filed: 11/21/23

Caption

Relating to the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, certain allotments under the Foundation School Program, determination of a school district's assets to liabilities ratio under the public school financial accountability rating system, and credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.

Impact

The introduction of HB 116 is expected to significantly impact school funding and teacher compensation across Texas. By increasing the basic allotment, the bill aims to provide more resources for schools, which can be allocated towards improving educational outcomes. Specifically, districts will have the flexibility to utilize these increases for enhancing teacher salaries, thereby potentially increasing job satisfaction and retention rates among educators. The structured bonuses for teachers will target specific needs based on district size, thereby addressing disparities in funding and compensation between smaller and larger districts.

Summary

House Bill 116 focuses on amendments to the public school finance system in Texas, particularly regarding the basic allotment and guaranteed yield for school districts. The bill proposes an increase in the basic allotment per student, which has been adjusted to reflect a greater financial commitment to educational funding from the state. This includes provisions for special education funding and an adjustment in the calculation of assets to liabilities for accountability ratings, ensuring that districts are better equipped to manage their financial health. Furthermore, it introduces a teacher retention bonus that varies based on the district's size, highlighting an emphasis on attracting and retaining quality educators.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 116 appears to be largely positive among educators and school administrators who view the bill as a necessary measure to support Texas schools financially. Supporters argue it adequately addresses the current challenges in funding, especially in the wake of high turnover rates among teachers due to inadequate compensation. However, there may also be concerns regarding the sustainability of such funding increases and whether they can be maintained in future budgets. The assurance that funding will be directed towards classroom teachers is seen as a positive step, although some stakeholders may worry about broader implications for school district autonomy in budget allocations.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB 116 relates to the criteria and specific calculations surrounding the allocations of funds and how they may affect smaller school districts differently than larger ones. While the bill aims to equalize funding, disparities in student populations could mean that larger districts benefit disproportionately despite the intention of the legislation to provide equitable support. Additionally, there may be disagreements over the structure of the teacher bonuses and whether they are sufficient to truly address the need for teacher retention. These factors may lead to further discourse as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 39. Public School System Accountability
  • Section: 082

• Chapter 49. Options For Local Revenue Levels In Excess Of Entitlement
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 822. Membership
  • Section: New Section