Texas Senate Bill SB167

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition charged by public institutions of higher education.

Impact

If enacted, SB167 will directly affect the financial landscape of public higher education in Texas. By restricting tuition increases to an established threshold, the bill aims to enhance the affordability of higher education for students. This could mean a more predictable financial obligation for students and families, potentially increasing access to education for a broader segment of the population. Additionally, this legislation is designed to support the ongoing goals of improvement outlined in the state's master plan for higher education.

Summary

Senate Bill 167 (SB167) seeks to establish limitations on the amount of tuition that public institutions of higher education can charge to students. It introduces a new section to the Education Code that defines 'tuition' as any charges categorized under tuition, including those established by other regulations. The bill aims to ensure that the total amount of tuition charged for an academic year must not exceed the tuition charged for a similar period in the prior academic year (2021-2022), thereby providing a safeguard against significant tuition hikes for students.

Contention

The proposed limitations do have points of contention among stakeholders in the educational sector. Critics of SB167 may argue that while lowering tuition fees is beneficial for students, it could hinder the ability of institutions to generate the necessary funding for operations and improvements. This may also limit the flexibility that institutions have in response to cost inflation and changing educational needs. Those in support of the bill argue that it enforces accountability and incentivizes universities to operate more cost-effectively, thus enhancing overall educational equity.