Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.
Impact
If enacted, SB2281 would significantly enhance the support framework for vulnerable students in Texas. It aims to improve educational outcomes for homeless youths and those who have been in the foster care system by mandating institutions to provide tailored assistance. Furthermore, it establishes measures to give priority access to housing for students experiencing homelessness, thereby addressing one of the critical barriers to academic success in higher education.
Summary
SB2281 is a legislative effort aimed at assisting students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care. The bill amends various sections of the Education Code to require each institution to designate at least one employee to serve as a liaison officer. This officer will be responsible for coordinating resources and support for affected students, facilitating their transition from secondary to postsecondary education, and ensuring they are informed of available services such as financial aid and housing options.
Contention
The discussion surrounding SB2281 may involve concerns regarding the implementation and funding of such support systems. While supporters argue that the bill is essential for equity in education, doubts may arise about the effectiveness of the liaison officers in executing their roles and whether sufficient resources will be allocated to meet the needs of these at-risk populations. Additionally, the implications of prioritizing housing assignments for homeless students could spark debates on how institutions manage their limited housing resources.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
Duplicate
Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.
Relating to housing between academic terms for certain students at public institutions of higher education who were formerly under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.
Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.
Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.
Relating to contracts to provide appropriate residential housing to students in extended foster care who enroll at public institutions of higher education.
In preliminary provisions, providing for homeless youth at institutions of higher education; and, in fostering independence through education, providing for housing priority.