Texas Senate Bill SB3006

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/14/25

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a public law school in El Paso County.

Impact

The establishment of a law school in El Paso is expected to significantly impact the local educational ecosystem by providing a pathway for prospective law students in the southwestern region of Texas. This initiative may help stimulate growth in the legal profession locally, create numerous jobs, and improve the overall economic status of the community by fostering a new generation of legal professionals who could serve the local populace.

Summary

SB3006 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing a public law school in El Paso County. This bill amends the Education Code to permit the governing board of a university system to create and manage a law school that offers degrees typically conferred by other law schools in the United States. The bill's introduction reflects an effort to enhance legal education access in a region that may have previously lacked such opportunities, thereby contributing to the professional landscape of the area.

Contention

While SB3006 aims to address an important educational gap, discussions around its implementation may arise concerning funding and resource allocation. The bill states that establishing the law school is subject to available funding, indicating that financial constraints could impact its feasibility. Additionally, if multiple governing boards express interest in establishing a law school, a process for determining which board receives approval will be implemented, potentially leading to competitive interests that could complicate the initiative.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 55. Financing Permanent Improvements
  • Section: New Section