Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB2504

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/28/09  
Voted on by House
5/11/09  
Out of Senate Committee
5/22/09  
Voted on by Senate
5/27/09  
Governor Action
6/19/09  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/31/09  

Caption

Relating to requiring a public institution of higher education to establish uniform standards for publishing cost of attendance information, to conduct student course evaluations of faculty, and to make certain information available on the Internet.

Impact

The provision in HB2504 will have a significant effect on how institutions prepare and publicize course information. By establishing uniform standards for course information, the bill ensures that all public higher education institutions maintain consistency and accessibility in their course offerings. This could foster a competitive educational environment where students are better informed about the courses and instructors they choose, ultimately aimed at enhancing educational accountability and quality.

Summary

House Bill 2504 aims to improve transparency in Texas public institutions of higher education by mandating that certain course-related information be made available online. The bill requires institutions to post syllabi, curriculum vitae of regular instructors, and if available, a budget report for each classroom course offered for credit. This information must be accessible from the institution's homepage without requiring user registration, facilitating easier access for students and the public.

Conclusion

Overall, the passage of HB2504 represents a move towards greater transparency in higher education, aligning with broader trends advocating for accountability in public institutions. Its success will depend on effective implementation and adherence by the institutions, which may necessitate additional support to ensure compliance without undermining academic freedom and flexibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2504 focus on how the implementation of these requirements may affect the workload of academic staff. While supporters argue that increased transparency benefits students, detractors may worry about the potential administrative burden placed on faculty and institutions. Additionally, concerns exist regarding adherence to the standards set forth in the bill and the potential penalization for institutions that may fail to comply with the stipulated requirements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2135

Relating to the course information required to be posted on a public institution of higher education's Internet website; providing an administrative penalty.

TX SB411

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to make available to students certain pregnancy-related informational materials published by the Department of State Health Services.

TX HB5126

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

TX SB2519

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

TX SB18

Relating to the tenure and employment of faculty members at certain public institutions of higher education.

TX SB473

Relating to providing information to undergraduate students regarding certain fixed or flat tuition rates provided by certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB3631

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information regarding mental health services to entering students.

TX SB34

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

TX HB4330

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

TX SB2225

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

Similar Bills

NJ A1695

Requires Secretary of Higher Education and DOLWD to establish performance quality standards for career-oriented programs of study offered by institutions of higher education, degree-granting proprietary institutions, and private career schools.

NJ S495

Requires Secretary of Higher Education and DOLWD to establish performance quality standards for career-oriented programs of study offered by institutions of higher education, degree-granting proprietary institutions, and private career schools.

TX HB1027

Relating to the disclosure of certain information regarding course materials by public institutions of higher education.

TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

TX SB1764

Relating to the dissemination of information regarding the cost of attending public and private institutions of higher education and regarding the availability of financial aid to assist in paying that cost.

TX SB1092

Relating to the disclosure of certain information regarding course materials by public institutions of higher education.

TX HB3768

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Guided Pathways program to facilitate the completion by students of undergraduate certificate and degree programs.

MS HB1367

The Academic Transparency Act of 2023; enact.