US EditionTexas Legislature Approves $8.5 Billion Boost for Public Schools After Years of Stagnant Funding
- The Texas House approved House Bill 2 on May 29, authorizing $8.5 billion in funding to support nearly 9,000 public schools and sent it to Governor Abbott for signing.
- The funding increase follows stagnant financial support since 2019 and extensive negotiation amid a historic $32.7 billion state budget surplus and prior failed voucher attempts.
- The bill allocates $4.2 billion for teacher pay raises, including $4,000 for teachers with 3–4 years’ experience in small districts, plus funds for special education, early learning, and safety.
- The legislation raises the basic per-student allotment by $55, far short of the House-proposed $395 and the approximately $1,300 needed to match inflation, prompting concerns about future budget challenges.
- While many praise HB 2 as a historic investment, questions remain about local impacts, staff reductions, and whether the increases will sufficiently address long-term school funding needs.
25 Articles
25 Articles
$8.5 billion school finance bill heads to Governor's desk for signature
AUSTIN (Nexstar) -- Texas House lawmakers gave the thumbs-up to a $8.5 billion school finance bill, which some in leadership called the largest investment in public schools in the state's history. But some school district leaders said they worry about the lack of local control. House Bill 2 is now heading to the Governor's desk for his signature. PREVIOUS: Texas Senate advances $8.5 billion increase to public school funding The additional …
Texas Standard
Houston Public MediaTexas’ $8.5B school funding plan is headed to Abbott’s desk. What it means for students and teachers
One of the most highly debated bills in Texas’ 2025 legislative session has passed both chambers and heads to Gov. Greg Abbott for his signature. House Bill 2 provides $8.5 billion for the state’s public school system.
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