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.