Texas Senate Bill SB2217

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact state education laws by structuring a formal mechanism to support students with disabilities financially. The program is mandated to assist in the payment of tuition and fees, potentially lowering the financial barrier that many students with disabilities face. Importantly, the Coordinating Board will administer this program, ensuring funds are allocated based on available resources and demand, which could streamline funding efforts and expand access to higher education for underserved populations.

Summary

SB2217 aims to establish the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program, designed to provide tuition assistance and support for eligible students with disabilities who are enrolled in public institutions of higher education. This legislation outlines the criteria for scholarship eligibility, the administration of the program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and the responsibilities of educational institutions in notifying prospective students and their families about available scholarships. The program's ultimate goal is to enhance accessibility and participation in higher education for students with disabilities, thereby fostering greater inclusivity within the academic landscape.

Contention

Despite the positive intent of SB2217, there may be notable points of contention regarding the regulations surrounding eligibility and length of scholarship benefits. For instance, the bill stipulates that students must maintain academic progress and adhere to specific enrollment criteria, which some critics might argue could unintentionally hamper access for individuals facing significant challenges related to their disabilities. Moreover, the requirement for a disability affidavit could present additional hurdles for students who may find it difficult to provide the necessary documentation, raising concerns over the balance between accountability and accessibility.