Compare Bills

Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2025-04-03

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill establishes a grant program funded with $2.5 million annually to support high school robotics teams and after-school programs coordinated through public schools or community organizations. The bill also allows students to receive excused absences to participate in school-sanctioned robotics competitions.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill addresses workforce shortages in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields by engaging high school students in hands-on learning.
• •They contend robotics programs build critical problem-solving, teamwork, and technical skills while motivating students to pursue STEM careers, and that the funding enables schools and community organizations that lack resources to launch or expand robotics opportunities for all students.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue that $2.5 million in recurring state funds should prioritize core academic needs or that robotics programs primarily benefit students already interested in STEM rather than closing broader educational gaps.
• •Some may question whether after-school programs are the best use of limited education funding compared to classroom instruction or whether schools should rely on grants from private sources and robotics organizations rather than state appropriations.