Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.
Impact
By requiring institutions of higher education to designate liaison officers and prioritize housing assistance for students who lack stable living situations, HB1784 provides a structured approach to meeting the needs of students who face unique challenges. Institutions are accountable for identifying students eligible for assistance based on specific criteria, including past homelessness and foster care history. This legislation is expected to improve educational access and success for populations that often struggle due to socioeconomic barriers.
Summary
House Bill 1784 aims to enhance the support for students enrolled in Texas public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who have been in foster care. The bill proposes that each higher education institution appoint a liaison officer responsible for assisting these vulnerable student populations. The liaison's duties include helping students transition from secondary to postsecondary education and providing them with information pertinent to available resources, such as financial aid, housing, and counseling services.
Sentiment
The discussions surrounding HB1784 have largely reflected a positive sentiment towards supporting students in need. Legislators and advocates emphasize the importance of creating an inclusive educational environment where all students, regardless of their background, have the necessary resources to succeed academically. However, there may be varying opinions on the fiscal implications and logistical feasibility of implementing these support systems across diverse institutions.
Contention
While the bill appears to have considerable support, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential challenges that institutions may face in effectively implementing the proposed measures. Questions have been raised about the adequacy of funding, the training needed for liaison officers, and whether institutions can prioritize these students effectively amidst existing demands. Such discussions may influence the final scope and execution of the bill.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
Identical
Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.
Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.
Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.
Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.
Relating to housing between academic terms for certain students at public institutions of higher education who were formerly under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to contracts to provide appropriate residential housing to students in extended foster care who enroll at public institutions of higher education.
In preliminary provisions, providing for homeless youth at institutions of higher education; and, in fostering independence through education, providing for housing priority.