AUSTIN (WBAP/KLIF News) – Governor Greg Abbott signed legislation on Thursday that allows voters to help decide the fate of Dallas County Schools.
Senate Bill 2065 and Senate Bill 1566 contain provisions that let voters decide whether the embattled school bus agency can continue operations.
Interim Superintendent for Dallas County Schools Leatha Mullins issued a statement about how the possibility of DCS shutting down could impact the community it serves.
“At the moment, I have no words. It makes no sense to dismantle an agency that has been serving the county and students for 170 years. This decision will have dire consequences for all of the school districts involved. We will discuss next steps with the DCS Board, possibly as soon as next Tuesday.”
During the most recent legislative session, State Representative Rafael Anchia (D-Dallas) stated some unflattering facts about the agency while speaking to the Education Committee.
“In the course of two years, the agency’s buses were subject to 4,000 complaints called in by other drivers who alleged reckless driving and speeding. In the course of one year, Dallas County Schools crashes increased by 103 percent,” he said.
Senator Don Huffines (R-Dallas) , who fought vigorously to close DCS, issued a statement praising Abbott’s decision.
My release describes the victory for students, schools & taxpayers. Thanks to @GregAbbott_TX@RafaelAnchia@LanceGoodenTX & more #txlegepic.twitter.com/x1AfwTdYey
— Senator Don Huffines (@DonHuffines) June 15, 2017
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