Relating to the distribution of money appropriated from the national research university fund.
Impact
The bill proposes a structured approach to the allocation of research funds by mandating that eligible institutions receive a minimum of $2.5 million if funds are available. This adjustment could lead to more consistent funding for institutions that may historically have received less than this threshold amount, potentially changing the dynamics of financial support for higher education institutions within the state. The change is significant as it attempts to enhance the overall research capability of Texas higher education institutions by ensuring they have a baseline level of funding.
Summary
House Bill 2115 seeks to amend the Education Code regarding the distribution of money appropriated from the national research university fund. The bill details the accounting methods to be used by the coordinating board for determining eligibility of institutions and the distribution amounts based on research funds expended. Specifically, it aims to ensure that funds are allocated fairly according to the research efforts of eligible institutions over the three previous fiscal years, thus directly impacting how state funds are managed and distributed to educational institutions.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HB 2115 appears to be supportive, particularly among those directly involved in higher education and research. Advocates argue that the bill addresses crucial funding disparities among research institutions, which can enhance Texas's academic and research standing. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding the implications of a structured funding model, particularly for institutions that require flexibility in funding due to varying research needs and objectives.
Contention
Notable points of contention arise regarding the funding formula and the implications it may have on smaller institutions lacking a robust track record of research funding. Critics could argue that a minimum funding threshold without a corresponding increase in allocations across the board might lead to unequal benefits. Additionally, the need for precise calculations and audits as outlined in the bill adds complexity that some stakeholders may view as unnecessary bureaucracy.
Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy; redesignating the national research university fund as the Texas University Fund.
Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy.
Proposing a constitutional amendment creating a university research fund to support emerging research universities in The University of Texas System or The Texas A&M University System and disqualifying all component institutions of those university systems from receiving money from the national research university fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the Texas University Fund, which provides funding to certain institutions of higher education to achieve national prominence as major research universities and drive the state economy.
Proposing a constitutional amendment reducing The University of Texas System's share of the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund, transferring to the national research university fund and general revenue fund a portion of the annual distribution made from the permanent university fund to the available university fund, appropriating the portion transferred to the national research university fund, and dedicating the portion transferred to the general revenue fund to provide for the support and maintenance of public institutions of higher education.
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the Texas University Fund, which provides funding to certain institutions of higher education to achieve national prominence as major research universities and drive the state economy.
Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating to the national research university fund a portion of certain income from the lease for oil and gas exploration of land dedicated to the permanent university fund.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy.
Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy; redesignating the national research university fund as the Texas University Fund.