If enacted, SB764 would have a notable impact on state education laws by formalizing the process for school closures and consolidations. It places a strong emphasis on community participation and accountability from local school boards. The act would require standardized procedures for hearings and the consideration of local impacts, such as transportation times and financial implications for affected families and communities. This legislation also introduces a financial mechanism that provides limited funding support from the Department of Education to maintain schools under threat of closure, contingent on meeting specific criteria.
Summary
Senate Bill 764, known as the Community School Parents' Choice Act, is designed to give parents a voice in the decision-making process regarding school closures and consolidations within West Virginia. The bill mandates that before any final decision is made by a county board on such proposals, the board must provide a detailed written explanation, an impact statement, and hold public hearings to gather community input. Parents can intervene and prevent school closures if a significant portion (70%) of the student population has parents who sign a petition opposing the closure, thus ensuring that parent perspectives are voiced and considered.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB764 is generally supportive among parents and community advocates who view it as a positive step toward enhancing parental involvement in educational decisions. However, it has faced criticism from some educational authorities and critics who argue that the bill could create obstacles for necessary closures due to operational inefficiencies or declining enrollment. They contend that while community input is essential, the required petitioning process may prolong decision-making and hinder effective management of the school system.
Contention
Opponents of SB764 argue that the legislation could complicate the closure process, making it more challenging for school boards to respond effectively to financial pressures or safety concerns. They express concerns that the focus on parental petitions may not always align with the best educational outcomes for students, especially in cases where closures are necessary for the overall health of the education system. The bill's sunset provision, which states that its provisions will expire in ten years, also raises questions about the durability of its impact on educational policy and community engagement.
Requires corporations subject to Louisiana income or franchise tax which have either corporate gross revenues everywhere of $8 billion or $8 million of assets everywhere to file combined returns and limits their NOL deduction to 50% of tax liability. (gov sig) (EG INCREASE GF RV See Note)