Texas House Bill HB3149

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/1/23

Caption

Relating to the creation of a universal higher education savings trust account by the Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3149 represents a significant step towards enhancing financial assistance for education in Texas. By creating a universal savings trust account, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden associated with higher education expenses. This could lead to increased enrollment in higher education institutions as families might feel more empowered to save for their children's education. The outreach program mandated by the bill will further educate parents about this new benefit, contributing to financial literacy around education savings.

Summary

House Bill 3149 aims to establish a universal higher education savings trust account managed by the Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board. The bill proposes that for each child born in Texas on or after September 1, 2023, a trust account will be opened automatically, and an initial deposit of $100 will be made to the account on behalf of the child. This initiative is intended to provide a foundation for saving towards qualified higher education expenses, promoting accessibility and financial preparedness for families in the state.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 3149 appears to be positive, especially among legislators who advocate for increased educational opportunities and financial support for families. Supporters emphasize the importance of early investment in a child’s education, while critics may question the sustainability and funding mechanisms of the program in the long term. The potential for additional costs to the state budget is a point of concern for some who fear it may divert funds from other critical educational resources.

Contention

While the bill has received support for its intentions to enhance higher education savings, there may be contention regarding its implementation and funding. Legislators need to consider long-term funding solutions to ensure the program's viability. Questions about the opt-out provision for parents may also arise, as some may prefer not to participate in government-funded savings programs. The necessity for a balance between universal support and parental choice will be a critical point in discussions as the bill is further debated.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 54. Tuition And Fees
  • Section: 701
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 709

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 191. Administration Of Vital Statistics Records
  • Section: New Section