Texas Senate Bill SB1020

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/24/11
• Introduced: 3/1/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/31/11
• Refer: 3/16/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/2/11
• Report Pass: 3/24/11
• Voted on by House: 5/23/11
• Engrossed: 3/31/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/11/11
• Report Pass: 4/29/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to a feasibility study regarding the establishment of a dental school at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso.

Impact

The impact of SB1020 on state laws primarily concerns the legislative framework surrounding higher education institutions in Texas. By facilitating this study, the bill could pave the way for the potential establishment of a new dental school, addressing gaps in dental education and health care access in the El Paso area and possibly across the state. If the study concludes favorably, it may lead to the allocation of funding and resources for the development of the institution, marking a significant expansion in specialized healthcare education in Texas.

Summary

SB1020 aims to initiate a feasibility study regarding the establishment of a dental school at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center located in El Paso. The bill mandates that a thorough assessment be conducted to determine both the necessity and practicality of launching a dental school in that region. The study will involve consultations with the board of regents of the Texas Tech University System, ensuring that the project's alignment with the University’s overall mission is considered.

Contention

While the bill is straightforward in its request for a feasibility study, there may be contention related to resource allocation and prioritization within the Texas higher education system. Opponents may argue about the funding required for such an initiative amidst competing needs of existing universities and programs. Furthermore, stakeholders from other educational institutions may voice concerns over the establishment of a new dental school, fearing it could divert funding and attention away from established programs or affect enrollment numbers in existing dental programs across the state.