Texas House Bill HB2657

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/11/25

Caption

Relating to the abolition of the Texas Education Agency and elimination of the position of commissioner of education, the transfer of powers and duties to the State Board of Education and the comptroller of public accounts, and the elimination of public school accountability and assessment systems.

Impact

If enacted, HB2657 would significantly restructure educational governance in Texas. The transition of responsibilities from TEA to the State Board of Education and the comptroller would dissolve the existing public school accountability systems, which could lead to changes in how schools are evaluated and funded. This measure aims to promote clarity and efficiency in educational regulations, but it may also raise concerns about how schools will maintain standards without the established oversight mechanisms that TEA provided.

Summary

House Bill 2657 proposes the abolition of the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the elimination of the commissioner of education's position. The bill aims to transfer the powers and duties of TEA to the State Board of Education and the comptroller of public accounts. This includes the management of public school accountability and assessment systems, effectively streamlining educational governance within Texas. The bill seeks to enhance the efficiency of educational administration by centralizing duties associated with funding and oversight previously handled by the TEA.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB2657 is the potential reduction of oversight in public education. Critics argue that dismantling the TEA will lead to a lack of accountability and support for struggling schools, as the traditional structure has worked to ensure educational equity across districts. Supporters of the bill counter that reassigning responsibilities could lead to a more effective governance model that reduces bureaucratic barriers. The debate centers on the ideal balance of accountability versus streamlined operations in Texas's educational framework.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 7. State Organization
  • Section: New Section

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

Government Code

• Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
  • Section: 011