Texas Senate Bill SB33

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The implementation of SB33 is anticipated to significantly impact state laws regarding financial aid for higher education. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will take on the administrative role of this grant program, developing rules for its implementation and ensuring compliance with educational standards. The bill promotes the idea of educational equity by allowing students from varied socio-economic backgrounds to attend college by easing the financial burden of tuition fees, potentially increasing enrollment and graduation rates among eligible demographics.

Summary

Senate Bill 33 establishes the Texas Promise Grant Program aimed at providing financial assistance for tuition and mandatory fees to eligible students enrolled in public institutions of higher education. The program is designed to increase accessibility to higher education for students from lower to middle-income households, particularly targeting those with an annual income of less than $150,000. The legislation emphasizes support for students graduating from high school or receiving equivalency certificates within the last three years, thereby enhancing the state's commitment to education and workforce development.

Contention

While the bill presents a forward-looking approach to improving access to education, there are concerns surrounding eligibility requirements, specifically regarding individuals with past felony convictions. The stipulation that only those who have been pardoned or meet certain conditions regarding their criminal history can receive aid could spark debates around fairness and equal access to educational opportunities. Additionally, some stakeholders might worry about the implications of limited grant amounts and the conditions related to maintaining satisfactory academic progress, which may pose challenges for students balancing various responsibilities.