Relating to student eligibility for tuition rebates offered by general academic teaching institutions.
Impact
The bill aims to promote timely degree completion among students by providing financial incentives through tuition rebates. With a clear framework for eligibility, it encourages students to stay within a defined credit limit, potentially reducing the financial burden of extended enrollments. This legislative change is designed to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and that students are more motivated to complete their degrees on time, thereby enhancing overall educational outcomes in Texas.
Summary
SB176 proposes amendments to the Education Code concerning the eligibility criteria for students seeking tuition rebates from general academic teaching institutions. The bill sets forth specific requirements for students to qualify for a rebate of a portion of the undergraduate tuition they have paid. Notably, it stipulates that to be eligible, students must earn their baccalaureate degree within a prescribed timeframe and limit their attempted credit hours to no more than three hours above the minimum required for graduation.
Contention
While the intent of SB176 focuses on encouraging responsible academic behavior, it raises some concerns among educational institutions and students alike. Critics argue that the stipulation on credit hour limits could disadvantage students who may need to take extra courses to achieve their educational goals, including those who require additional prerequisites or who are pursuing double majors. The bill may also have implications for students with disabilities or those who encounter unforeseen challenges that extend their time in school, thus potentially limiting their access to financial rebates.
Last_action
The bill's last action states that it became effective immediately upon a two-thirds majority vote in both legislative houses. If such approval was not attained, the bill would take effect on September 1, 2011, indicating the urgency and importance placed on the legislation by its sponsors.
Relating to creating a framework for including certain credentials of value offered by general academic teaching institutions as part of a baccalaureate degree program.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.