Jennifer Toon advocates for funding to enhance education access for incarcerated women

The Texas State Legislature's Appropriations Subcommittee on Article III convened on February 24, 2025, to discuss key funding recommendations and public testimonies related to higher education and retirement programs. The meeting highlighted the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) and the urgent need for increased funding for the Windham School District to enhance educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals.

Emily Navarrete from the Legislative Budget Board presented the ORP, a defined contribution retirement plan aimed at providing flexibility for higher education employees. The proposed budget for the biennium totals $322.5 million, reflecting a 1.9% increase from the previous base. The recommendations include a 6.6% state contribution rate and an assumed annual payroll growth rate of 3.05%. Navarrete concluded her presentation by inviting questions from committee members.

Public testimony followed, beginning with Jennifer Toon, Executive Director of the Linus Justice Impacted Women's Alliance. Toon urged the committee to prioritize funding for the Windham School District, emphasizing the importance of expanding access to higher education for incarcerated women. She highlighted the barriers posed by limited broadband infrastructure in rural areas, which hampers virtual learning opportunities. Toon argued that investing in technology upgrades is essential for providing incarcerated students with the skills necessary for successful reintegration into society.

Timothy Lee, Executive Director of the Texas Retired Teachers Association, also provided testimony, expressing gratitude for the legislature's ongoing support of the teacher retirement system. He emphasized the importance of full funding for the TRS care program and acknowledged the legislature's consistent efforts to enhance pension funding and benefits for public school employees.

The meeting underscored the critical discussions surrounding educational access for incarcerated individuals and the financial security of retired educators, setting the stage for further legislative action in these areas.