SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5222

BYSenators Saling, Gaspard, Smitherman, Patterson, Bauer, Stratton, Lee and West

Repealing the termination of the loan program for mathematics and science teachers.

Senate Committee on Higher Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 19, 1989; February 20, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Saling, Chairman; Patterson, Vice Chairman; Bauer, Cantu, Smitherman, Stratton, von Reichbauer.

Senate Staff:Scott Huntley (786-7421)

                  March 15, 1989

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 14, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The loan program for mathematics and science teachers was established by the Legislature in 1983 in response to state and national studies demonstrating a shortage of qualified teachers in public schools.  The program is designed to provide long-term loans of up to $2,500 per year to students in a teacher education degree program in the field of science and mathematics.  The repayment of the loan is forgiven for each payment period after graduation in which the borrower teaches science or mathematics in a public school in this state.  Should the borrower teach mathematics or science in a public school in this state for ten years, the entire loan is forgiven.

The program is scheduled to terminate on August 23, 1989 unless it is reenacted by the Legislature.  The Legislative Budget Committee is required by statute to review the program prior to the termination date.

SUMMARY:

The termination of the loan program for mathematics and science teachers is repealed.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Marilyn Sjolund, Higher Education Coordinating Board (pro); Ron Perry, Legislative Budget Committee; Frank Hensley, Legislative Budget Committee