House approves first substitute to consolidate school community councils, debates parent membership rule

Lawmakers on the House floor debated and approved a first substitute to Senate Bill 167 on March 6, 2002, a bill to consolidate various school‑level committees into a single school community council model and to set rules for membership and oversight.

Representative Bigelow (floor sponsor) said the bill pulls together existing committees—such as school land trust committees—under one coordinated council that must obtain local school‑board approval for its actions. Representative Morgan moved an amendment to require that parents or guardians who serve as parent members have a child enrolled in the school during their term of office; she argued that parent representation should be tied to currently enrolled students to ensure authentic local representation.

Opponents, including Representative Bigelow and others, responded that the change could make recruitment harder and that many parents who become involved wish to serve out full terms even if a child later leaves the school. Members across the floor described both recruiting challenges at some schools and strong support for keeping parents engaged. Representatives raised technical and custodial questions—whether noncustodial parents or school employees could serve in certain roles—and the sponsor clarified the amendment applied only to parent/guardian member slots and did not restrict community members or staff from serving in other council roles.

The House recorded final action on the first substitute: 43 yes, 26 no. The bill will be referred to the Senate for further consideration.