LISD's Latest Lege #13
A Recurring Legislative Update on #txed & #txlege
Summary of the Third Special Session
A third special legislative session came and went and while it wasn't particularly focused on education priorities, there are a few notable bills I want to flag for you. At the time of this newsletter, it's unclear if a fourth special session will be called, but there are rumors that one may be called in the spring ahead of the primary elections.
Also, early voting for the Nov. 2 election is happening now. With eight Constitutional amendments on the ballot, it may be helpful to read the sample ballot and explanatory statements (Spanish) provided by the Texas Secretary of State before heading to the polls.
Let's get to the lege!
Top Five for the Third Special Legislative Session
The redistricting process was completed during this session and new maps have been approved for the Texas House, Texas Senate, School Board of Education, and Congressional delegation. Under the new maps, LISD will gain one House Representative (HD-57) and one State Senator (SD-30, currently held by Sen. Drew Springer). The maps can be found at: https://dvr.capitol.texas.gov/
SB 1 (Bettencourt) passed unanimously in both chambers and will increase the mandatory homestead exemption for school property taxpayers from $25,000 to $40,000. The increase should net the average homeowner about $176 in annual savings. School districts will be held harmless on both M&O and I&S when the homestead exemption is increased. The bill does not include any tax compression, prohibition on tax ratification elections (TREs), or rely on federal stimulus funds. The tax exemption will have to go to voters in May of 2022 before becoming effective.
SB 8 (Nelson), which addressed an unallocated $16.3 billion in American Rescue Plan funds, provides $3.3 billion in capital projects for higher education, $500 million for broadband expansion, and $286 million for the Teacher Retirement System to pay for TRS-Care and TRS-ActiveCare coronavirus-related claims.
HB 25 (Perry) on restricting transgender student-athlete participation in UIL sports passed. It does allow female students to compete against male athletes if the corresponding event is unavailable for females.
Two of Governor Abbott’s priorities did not pass - legislation on banning vaccine mandates and increases to illegal voting penalties.
LISD Government Relations
Email: sheehans@lisd.net
Website: www.lisd.net/legislative
Location: 1565-A West Main Street, Lewisville, TX, USA
Phone: (469) 948-8006