Texas House Bill HB2140

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/7/09

Caption

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain veterans of the Texas State Guard.

Impact

The legislation seeks to make higher education more accessible to veterans by alleviating their financial burdens associated with tuition and fees. By ensuring that veterans of the Texas State Guard are granted these exemptions, HB2140 could potentially increase enrollment and retention rates among this demographic within public institutions of higher education. This aligns with the broader goal of enhancing educational opportunities for veterans while recognizing their sacrifices and service to the state.

Summary

House Bill 2140 proposes amendments to the Education Code regarding tuition and fee exemptions for certain veterans of the Texas State Guard at public higher education institutions. The bill aims to extend the existing exemptions to include those veterans who have served honorably and meet the specified criteria. This is a significant move to acknowledge and support the contributions of veteran service members while encouraging their pursuit of higher education. Notably, HB2140 emphasizes the importance of rendering educational benefits to individuals who have dedicated their time and effort to military service, thereby facilitating their transition into civilian life.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, there may be discussions regarding the implementation of the bill and the potential fiscal implications on educational funding and resource allocation. Stakeholders might express concerns about the financial impact of these exemptions on the budgets of higher education institutions. Furthermore, there may be debates surrounding the eligibility criteria for other veteran groups, leading to calls for broader inclusivity in future amendments.