Texas Senate Bill SB2279

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/11/25

Caption

Relating to a wage increase for certain public school employees.

Impact

The bill introduces a provision that allows school districts to receive additional state aid for the wage increases mandated under the new policy. This is a significant step toward ensuring that even districts which may not typically qualify for state funding can support their employees with the new wage. The implementation of this bill is expected to have positive ramifications for the financial well-being of public school employees and could lead to increased job satisfaction and retention rates.

Summary

SB2279 proposes a wage increase for public school employees in Texas, targeting full-time personnel excluding administrators and those on a minimum salary schedule. The bill mandates a $2 per hour wage increase for these employees starting in the 2025-2026 school year. This increase aims to provide better compensation for school staff, reflecting a growing recognition of the essential services they provide to students and communities.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at improving employee compensation, discussions around its implications have raised questions about the sustainability of these wage increases. Critics argue that depending on state aid could create financial uncertainty for some districts in the long term, especially those that struggle with budget constraints. Proponents contend, however, that this bill is a necessary investment in education that will ultimately benefit the state's educational standards.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 22. School District Employees And Volunteers
  • Section: New Section

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

• Chapter 21. Educators
  • Section: New Section