Relating to the dissemination of certain school district ad valorem tax-related information.
Impact
The enactment of SB2415 will alter the Tax Code by amending provisions related to the dissemination of key financial metrics for school districts. By requiring the posting of detailed information about tax revenues and funding, the bill aims to provide increased accountability and informed public engagement. This legislative change is expected to impact local governments as they will need to comply with the new requirements, thereby improving budgeting and fiscal planning within the state's educational framework.
Summary
SB2415 aims to enhance the transparency regarding the financial operations of school districts in Texas, particularly in relation to their ad valorem tax-related information. The bill mandates that county assessor-collectors post specific financial details on their websites, such as the percentages of local taxes imposed for maintenance and operations, as well as their funding sources from state funds. Such requirements are applicable to school districts exceeding a certain local revenue level that take actions to reduce their revenue levels, creating a clearer picture of school financing for stakeholders and taxpayers.
Contention
While SB2415's intent is to bolster transparency and accountability in school funding, it may also provoke discussion surrounding the administrative burden placed on school districts and county offices to adhere to new disclosure requirements. Advocates for the bill argue that thorough public access to financial data will empower taxpayers and better inform them of how their funds are utilized. Opponents, however, could express concerns regarding the additional responsibilities for already strained educational resources and the possibility that complex financial data may not be easily interpreted by the general public.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Tax Code
Chapter 26. Assessment
Section: 16
Chapter 31. Collections
Section: 01
Education Code
Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
Section: New Section
Chapter 49. Options For Local Revenue Levels In Excess Of Entitlement
Relating to the information required to be included in or with a school district ad valorem tax bill and posted on the tax-related information county internet website.
Relating to the information required to be included in or with a school district ad valorem tax bill and posted on the tax-related information county internet website.
Relating to the provision to school district property tax payers and the public of certain information regarding the use of property tax revenue paid to the district.
Relating to the provision to school district property tax payers and the public of certain information regarding the use of property tax revenue paid to the district.
Relating to the elimination of certain property taxes for school district maintenance and operations and the provision of public education funding by increasing the rates of certain state taxes.
MS Student Funding Formula; increase percentage of allotted weight attributable to low-income students for determining preliminary weighted enrollment.