Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1118

Caption

Relating to a requirement that public and private institutions of higher education provide certain cost and employment opportunity data for degree programs.

Impact

The introduction of this bill significantly influences state education policy by enforcing transparency among educational institutions. By requiring institutions to provide historical data about costs and outcomes, it aims to hold them accountable for the financial and vocational promises they make. The policy is considered a step towards improving educational standards and ensuring students are not misled regarding the value of their degrees. Such measures could help reduce student debt by promoting programs with higher returns on investment, ultimately improving the overall higher education landscape in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 1118 mandates that both public and private institutions of higher education provide detailed data related to the costs and employment opportunities associated with their degree programs. Required information includes total costs, the expected time to complete the program, and potential job placements along with salary expectations for graduates. This initiative seeks to enhance transparency in higher education, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their educational investments.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1118 involve concerns about the feasibility of compliance among educational institutions, especially smaller private entities which may lack adequate resources to gather and report such detailed data. Additionally, there are discussions about the accuracy of the data provided, as historical trends may not always predict future job markets accurately, leading to potential disillusionment among students. This debate also highlights the tension between educating prospective students and the autonomy of schools in managing their financial and marketing strategies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB18

Relating to the tenure and employment of faculty members at certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4880

Relating to the accreditation of public institutions of higher education; providing a private cause of action.

TX HB5126

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

TX SB2519

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

TX SB2077

Relating to the establishment of the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public and private institutions of higher education.

TX HB3085

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide applicants with certain information regarding eligibility for public health programs.

TX SB1887

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

TX HB3296

Relating to reporting requirements regarding certain data related to students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB1053

Relating to measures to facilitate the successful completion of degree and certificate programs by certain adult learners at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2642

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information regarding certain women's health programs to students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.