Governor Abbott Signs School Finance Reform Legislation

August 16, 2017 | Austin, Texas | Press Release

Governor Greg Abbott today signed House Bill 21 (HB 21) to create a school finance commission as well as provide immediate funding for public education, historic funding for charter school facilities and new programs for students with special needs. This bill also includes benefits for retired teachers in Texas and hardship grants for Additional State Aid for Tax Reduction (ASATR) school districts. Creating a school finance commission so that Texas can continue the process of reforming its broken school finance system, as well as improving benefits for Texas retired teachers, were top priorities included in the Governor's special session call.

Nothing is more important than preparing our children for their future, which is why Texas will continue to prioritize investments in education

said Governor Abbott. “My job as governor is to ensure that we attract and we retain the best and brightest educators and provide the highest quality education possible for all students. I want to thank Sen. Larry Taylor and Rep. Phil King for working toward this goal on behalf of both Texas educators and students this special session."