The House Committee on Public Education

84th Legislature

October 17, 2016

9:00 a.m.

E2.036

Pursuant to a notice posted on October 6, 2016, the House Committee on Public Education met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Aycock, at 9:06 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Aycock; Allen; Bohac; Dutton; Farney; Galindo; González, Mary; Huberty; King, Ken; and VanDeaver.

A quorum was present.

The committee considered interim charge eight: Study ways to increase parental choice in education, and review the successes and failures of school choice programs in other states. Examine the benefits and costs of implementing such a program in Texas. Recommend whether an expansion of school choice in Texas is needed, and suggest ways to ensure that any school receiving public support is held accountable for its academic and financial performance.

Testimony taken/registration recorded on interim charge eight.  (See attached witness list.)

At 2:13 p.m., on the motion of Representative Aycock and without objection, the meeting was recessed until 2:30 p.m., October 17, 2016.

The committee reconvened at 2:33 p.m. and was called to order by the chair, Representative Aycock.

The quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Aycock; Farney; González, Mary; King, Ken; and VanDeaver.

The committee considered interim charge nine: Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction and the implementing of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature, specifically including HB 4, HB 743, HB 2205, and SB 149. In conducting this oversight, the committee should:

a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens;

b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate;

c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and

d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.

Testimony taken/registration recorded on interim charge nine.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Dutton now present.)

(Representative Galindo now present.)

At 5:50 p.m., on the motion of Representative Aycock and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Aycock, Chair

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Jenna Watts, Clerk