Big Showdown In The House

A lot of things happening here in the Texas House of Representatives. I have been a little occupied so sorry for not posting as often as I would like. The Perry-Sharp bill was building momentum and looked like it would pass by a close margin. The recently passed out of committee, House Bill 1 and 2, has caused a loss of support for the overall plan amongst moderate members on this day. The legislation, filed by state Rep. Warren Chisum, R-Pampa, has been referred to as the Legislature's "get outta Dodge" plan. Scott McCown, a former judge and director of the Center for Public Policy Priorities, which advocates for low- and middle-income Texans said of the legislation, "It would destroy equity."

The bill has a provision that eliminates recapture on new money the school districts generate. The bill would allow wealthy school districts to keep all the new money they can generate at the higher tax rates.

This has a number of crucial members concerned. I would expect a retreat from this position if the plan is going to get the support necessary to pass. Things could fall apart if a correction is not made. A vote tomorrow morning on rules of operation will be a showdown worth watching. The House is set to take up a procedural rule to lock down the debate on House Bills 1-5. As things progress, I will do my best to post.