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F I S C A L I M P A C T R E P O R T
SPONSOR Ezzell
ORIGINAL DATE
LAST UPDATED
2/2/06
HB 573
SHORT TITLE Dexter & Hagerman-Area Distance Learning
SB
ANALYST Aguilar
APPROPRIATION (dollars in thousands)
Appropriation
Recurring
or Non-Rec
Fund
Affected
FY06
FY07
$250.0
Recurring
General Fund
(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)
Relates to HB 572 and SB 481
SOURCES OF INFORMATION
LFC Files
SUMMARY
Synopsis of Bill
House Bill 573 appropriates $250 thousand from the general fund to the public education de-
partment for the purpose of implementing regional education cooperative #7 distance learning
model in the Dexter, Hagerman, Lake Arthur and Loving school districts.
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS
The appropriation of $250 thousand contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general
fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2007 shall
revert to the general fund.
SIGNIFICANT ISSUES
PED notes distance learning has been identified as a crucial element to the survival of rural
schools. Without the means to deliver a complete range of courses, students encounter signifi-
cant obstacles to pursuing curriculum that implements recommendations of the High School Ini-
tiative and Math/Science Town Halls
The Higher Education Department note the proposed recurring budget for the distance learning
pg_0002
House Bill 573 – Page 2
technologies model includes training twenty-five teachers representing the four districts, training
consultant, and a distance education coordinator to provide training and support. The implemen-
tation of the curriculum will require textbooks, materials and supplies. The students will also
have the opportunity to receive funding for travel associated with hybrid course delivery and
concurrent and advanced placement tuition costs.
PA/nt