Continuing our commitment to ensuring a quality education for Pennsylvania students, the House last week took up four school-related bills, reports state Rep. Jim Cox (R-129)
Senate Bill 1281 would reform the cumbersome and outdated reimbursement process for school renovation and construction projects, Cox said. It would also establish a publicly accessible Internet database (SchoolWATCH) that shows exactly how taxpayer money is being spent by schools as a way to increase transparency; and give school districts flexibility for obtaining the necessary 180 school days in a school year in the case of weather emergencies. The bill awaits further consideration by the Senate.
In addition, House Bill 1207 seeks to expand access to the popular Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) or the Educational Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs, which help provide opportunities for students to participate in innovated educational programs. The legislation is awaiting further consideration by the full House.
Finally, House Bill 2076 would make sure high school students get the college credits they earn through Advanced Placement and other educational programs by requiring the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education to adopt uniform standards to ensure that all credits transfer between the State System universities seamlessly. The bill awaits action in the Senate.
“The House continues to look for ways to improve educational opportunities for all students across the Commonwealth, with more efficient oversight, streamlining the bureaucratic process, and putting students first,” Cox said.
