Board authorizes first reading of updated Financial Accountability System Resource Guide

The State Board of Education’s committee on school finance approved for first reading and filing authorization proposed amendments to 19 TAC chapter 109, section 109.41, which adopts the Financial Accountability System Resource Guide (FASRAG).

Mr. Marks, the presenter, told the committee the guide “provides all of the accounting guidance that school districts and charters need” and includes auditing and purchasing guidance. He said the proposed amendments repeal the audit module tied to prior commissioner and state board authority over state compensatory education spending that the legislature removed, and include routine cleanup tied to Governmental Accounting Standards Board updates. “It’s, you know, 2,000 pages roughly,” he said.

A board member moved the rule for first reading and filing authorization; the chair indicated the motion was seconded and called for questions. When asked who drafts the guide, Mr. Marks said, “Me and my staff” and noted the document is adopted under both commissioner and state board rule-making processes. He also confirmed staff can provide a change document showing edits between the prior ('19) and current ('20) versions.

The chair noted that filing authorization means the rule will be submitted to the Texas Register for public comment; Mr. Marks confirmed that step. With no objections raised, the chair declared the motion carried and the item will proceed through the formal notice and public-comment process.