Texas Senate Bill SB155

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to reports regarding the consideration of certain factors by public and private institutions of higher education in admissions.

Impact

If enacted, SB155 would significantly impact the admissions process at public and private colleges and universities in Texas. The legislation mandates comprehensive data disclosure regarding the factors that influence admissions decisions. This includes an analysis of the representation of different racial and ethnic groups among the student body, which would provide insight into diversity efforts and highlight any disparities in educational outcomes, such as overall graduation rates and loan defaults among varying demographic groups. The bill aims to reassess the methods institutions use to achieve diversity, potentially increasing scrutiny on universities that employ race as a factor in admissions.

Summary

SB155 relates to the reporting requirements for public and private institutions of higher education concerning their admissions decisions. The bill mandates that, starting July 1 of each year, these institutions must provide an annual report to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. This report must detail whether the institution considers factors such as an applicant's race, color, ethnicity, or national origin in their admissions process, as well as familial ties to the institution, which would include previous attendance and donations. This requirement aims to cultivate transparency in how schools approach admissions and to assess the ramifications on diversity within student populations.

Contention

SB155 may lead to contentious debate, particularly surrounding the issue of affirmative action and race considerations in college admissions. Proponents argue that transparency is crucial in understanding and shaping admissions policies that aim to enhance diversity and representation within higher education. They see the bill as a way of holding institutions accountable for their approaches. Conversely, critics may argue that such reporting requirements could undermine the nuanced considerations that institutions employ in their admissions processes, potentially leading to a backlash against affirmative action policies and reducing diversity within the student body.