SRC-ARR S.B. 1140 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1140 76R9010 KKA-DBy: Wentworth Education 4/12/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, Texas law requires educational institutions to give equal opportunities for all individuals within its jurisdiction or geographical boundaries pursuant to the Texas Education Code. However, prekindergarten is available only to children who are at least three years of age and are unable to speak and comprehend the English language, are educationally disadvantaged, or are homeless. S.B. 1140 would make all children who are at least three years of age eligible for enrollment in prekindergarten in a district that offers prekindergarten. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1140 regulates eligibility for public prekindergarten classes. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Sections 29.153(a) and (b), Education Code, to authorize any school district to offer prekindergarten classes if the district identifies 15 or more children who are at least three, rather than four, years of age and who meet certain requirements. Provides that a child is eligible for enrollment in a prekindergarten class in a district that offers prekindergarten classes if the child is at least three years of age. Makes a conforming change. SECTION 2. Makes this act apply beginning with the 1999-2000 school year. SECTION 3. Emergency clause. Effective date: 90 days after adjournment.