RAISE Act of 2023 Respect, Advancement, and Increasing Support for Educators Act of 2023
Impact
The bill introduces a refundable teacher tax credit of $1,000, plus an applicable amount based on the student poverty ratio at qualifying schools, which could significantly affect the compensation structure for educators in low-income areas. Furthermore, it mandates that state and local educational agencies guard against reductions in teacher salaries due to the receipt of this tax credit, ensuring funds allocated for salaries remain intact even with the incentive in place. The implications of these provisions highlight a drive towards enhancing teacher support while fostering equity in education funding.
Summary
House Bill 3264, titled the ‘Respect, Advancement, and Increasing Support for Educators Act of 2023’ (RAISE Act), seeks to amend the Internal Revenue Code to provide a refundable tax credit for certain teachers. This legislation aims to support state efforts towards ensuring educators receive a livable wage, thereby making the teaching profession more appealing. The bill specifically defines 'eligible educators' to include elementary and secondary teachers, as well as early childhood educators, facilitating a wide reach into various educational sectors.
Contention
While the aim of HB3264 is largely supported, there may be concerns regarding its funding mechanisms and the potential dependency it establishes on federal support for local education funding. Critics might argue that without sustainable state-level investment in education, reliance on federal incentives could lead to disparities in teacher compensation and quality of education, particularly in districts that may struggle to meet the eligibility criteria for federal grants. Additionally, how effectively the student poverty ratio is calculated and applied could raise questions about its overall efficacy in supporting educators in need.
Native American Education Opportunity Act This bill addresses education savings account programs and charter schools for tribal students. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Education and the Department of the Interior, at the request of federally recognized Indian tribes, to provide funds to tribes for tribal-based education savings account programs. Tribes must use these funds to award grants to education savings accounts for students who (1) attended or will be eligible to attend a school operated by the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE); or (2) will not be attending a school operated by the BIE, receiving an education savings account from another tribe, or attending public elementary or secondary school while participating in the program. Funds may be used for items and activities such as costs of attendance at private schools, private tutoring and online learning programs, textbooks, educational software, or examination fees. The Government Accountability Office must review the implementation of these education savings account programs, including any factors impacting increased participation in such programs. Additionally, the bill authorizes the BIE to approve and fund charter schools at any school that it operates or funds.