Texas House Bill HB212

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a parental empowerment program administered by the comptroller of public accounts.

Impact

The implementation of HB 212 is expected to remodel the landscape of educational funding in Texas. By allowing for the reimbursement of private school tuition, the bill is designed to enhance competition among schools, enabling parents to choose educational paths that they believe best serve their children. It is positioned to possibly reduce reliance on public schooling and may result in significant shifts in how funding is allocated across school districts. Importantly, private schools selected by parents will not be compelled to adhere to any new state laws governing educational programs post-January 1, 2025.

Summary

House Bill 212, titled 'Texas Parental Empowerment Act of 2025', establishes a Parental Empowerment Program which enables parents or guardians of school-age children to receive state reimbursement for private school tuition. The reimbursement may cover an amount less than the state average maintenance and operations expenditures per student, aimed at giving parents control over their children's educational choices. The bill emphasizes parental authority in the educational decision-making process, arguing that education is best directed by parents rather than mandated by the government.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate, particularly around issues of funding equity and adherence to education quality standards. Opponents of the bill argue that it could divert public funds away from public schools and into private institutions, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities. Proponents, however, assert that it empowers families to make educational choices that align with their values and beliefs. Legislative discussions have highlighted concerns over the implications for public education systems, with advocates for public schooling cautioning against a 'voucher system' that may destabilize traditional education funding mechanisms.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
  • Section: 266
  • Section: New Section