Texas House Bill HB992

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/29/11
• Voted on by House: 4/18/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/25/11
• Engrossed: 4/18/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Report Pass: 5/21/11
• Enrolled: 5/29/11
• Vetoed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to excess undergraduate credit hours at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The implications of HB992 are significant for academic policy within Texas public colleges and universities. By formalizing the notification process for students, the bill aligns with broader efforts to promote student success and retention by discouraging excessive credit accumulation. The alterations to the Education Code also implement an updated framework for calculating how various types of academic credits are considered, potentially impacting the financial aid eligibility and expenditure for both institutions and students.

Summary

House Bill 992 focuses on the regulation of excess undergraduate credit hours at public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill requires that institutions give written notice to each undergraduate student regarding the stipulations of credit hours before the conclusion of their first semester. This legislative change aims to ensure that students are informed about how excess hours may affect their academic progress and financial responsibilities, including tuition costs.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the practical enforcement of these regulations. Critics may argue that increased restrictions on credit hours could disproportionately affect non-traditional students, such as those balancing work and family obligations, or students pursuing dual degrees. Furthermore, there could be debates concerning the definitions and guidelines outlined in the bill about what constitutes 'excess credit hours' and how institutions implement these provisions without hindering educational opportunities for students.