TX
Texas Senate Bill SB260

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB260

Filed
11/12/24  
Out of Senate Committee
3/10/25  
Voted on by Senate
3/12/25  
Out of House Committee
4/16/25  
Voted on by House
4/17/25  
Governor Action
6/20/25  

Caption

Relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program.

Impact

The passage of SB 260 would notably enhance local school districts' ability to allocate resources towards safety improvements, which could include upgraded security infrastructure, mental health resources, and training for staff and volunteers. The financial boosts are aimed at providing schools with the resources necessary to implement effective safety strategies tailored to their unique environments. Given the historical context of heightened concern regarding school safety, this legislation seeks to fortify school environments in Texas significantly.

Summary

Senate Bill 260, relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program, aims to amend the way school districts receive financial support for enhancing safety measures. Specifically, the bill increases the annual allotment provided per student in average daily attendance from $10 to $20, as well as raising the per campus allotment from $15,000 to $33,540. This financial adjustment reflects a growing recognition of the importance of ensuring secure school environments amidst ongoing discussions about school safety across the nation.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 260 has been largely positive, with wide bipartisan support evidenced by the unanimous votes in both the House and Senate. Legislators have recognized the urgent need for increased funding to address safety concerns, indicating a collective commitment to enhance school security. However, there have been discussions regarding the distribution of funds and how equitable this funding may be across various school districts, especially those that may struggle to meet the needs of more significant populations or require extensive renovations.

Contention

While SB 260 is perceived as a progressive step towards ensuring the safety of students and faculty, some contention exists regarding its long-term effectiveness and the sustainability of its funding. Critics might highlight potential gaps in accountability in how schools utilize these increased funds, and questions arise about whether this financial support will genuinely translate into better on-the-ground safety measures or simply remain theoretical enhancements. The bill exemplifies broader discussions about the state's role in educational funding versus local autonomy in addressing safety.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
    • Section: 115
    • Section: 115
    • Section: 115
    • Section: 115
    • Section: 115
    • Section: 115
    • Section: 115

Companion Bills

TX HB124

Similar Relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program.

Previously Filed As

TX SB5

Relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program and the establishment of a school safety grant program; making an appropriation.

TX HB2209

Relating to establishing the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program and creating an allotment and outcomes bonus under the Foundation School Program to support the program.

TX SB2

Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.

TX SB789

Relating to academic distinction designations under the public school accountability system and the career and technology allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB9

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB2267

Relating to the basic allotment and the guaranteed yield under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB2

Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.

TX HB1672

Relating to the basic allotment and the guaranteed yield under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB4188

Relating to the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, including financial and other assistance provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators and to certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB11

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.