Daniel Mayer, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The 87th Texas Legislature convened on Jan. 12, 2021, and will adjourn May 31, 2021. The legislature meets every two years to set the state’s budget and consider and implement new legislation. This year’s session is particularly important as the legislature grapples with the effects of COVID-19 and convenes for the first time since the landmark 2019 session that adopted House Bill 3, a bill that instituted significant reforms to school finance.
For each legislative session, the Arlington ISD issues a legislative agenda with a series of priorities that are important to the district and public education in Texas. The district shares the agenda and priorities with our elected officials and seeks their support.
2021 Arlington ISD Legislative Priorities
COVID-19
Allocate state funds to ensure public education is not disrupted due to financial hardships created by COVID-19.
Funding
Identify state revenue sources to sustain the school finance system established by House Bill 3 and continue buying down school district property tax rates.
House Bill 3
Ensure the Texas Education Agency (TEA) implements HB 3 in accordance with the bill’s intent and make adjustments as necessary.
Health Insurance
Ensure the Texas Retirement System (TRS) continues the work it began following the last legislative session to increase access to affordable health insurance for public school employees.
Accountability
Require a complete recalibration of the accountability system in 2021 to effectively adjust for the impact of COVID-19, empower districts to develop local accountability metrics, and reduce reliance on the STAAR test.
Mental Health
Identify effective solutions and appropriate ongoing funding for identifying and serving students with mental health needs.
Local Authority
Preserve local authority as stated in Texas Education Code § 7.003: “An educational function not specifically delegated to the agency or the board under this code is reserved to and shall be performed by school districts ...”
Legislative News and Information
LEARN ABOUT ARLINGTON ISD’S LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Priority G calls for local authority for school districts
Learn about Arlington ISD’s legislative priorities Priority F focuses on mental health needs
Learn about Arlington ISD’s legislative priorities Priority B calls for sustaining the school finance system and reducing tax rates
Learn about Arlington ISD’s legislative priorities Priority A calls on the state to ensure public education funding during COVID-19
