Bill > SB149

This bill proposes significant changes to special education funding in Texas, focusing on creating a more nuanced and comprehensive funding system for school districts serving students with special needs. The legislation introduces a new funding model with seven tiers of intensity of service, replacing the previous system that used fixed weights for different instructional arrangements. A new service group allotment is established, which provides additional funding based on the level of services, equipment, and technology required for students with special education needs. The bill increases the basic allotment for students with dyslexia from 0.1 to 0.5 and allows districts to receive funding from multiple provisions for the same student. For the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years, the bill includes a transition period where the commissioner may adjust funding formulas to ensure compliance with federal requirements. A "hold harmless" provision guarantees that districts will receive at least the same level of funding they received in the 2025-2026 school year. The legislation also requires the commissioner to consult with school district leaders and stakeholders when developing funding weights and to submit proposals to the Legislative Budget Board. Overall, the bill aims to provide more flexible and potentially increased funding for special education services while maintaining financial stability for school districts.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB149