Relating to the establishment of a public law school in the Rio Grande Valley.
Impact
If enacted, HB 59 would amend the Texas Education Code to add a new section (61.0905), detailing the establishment of the Rio Grande Valley School of Law. The governing board would have the authority to develop courses leading to degrees commonly offered by accredited law schools across the United States. Additionally, they would be permitted to manage the school through an academic institution within the university system, potentially increasing job opportunities and enhancing local economic development through a better-educated workforce.
Summary
House Bill 59 proposes the establishment of a public law school in the Rio Grande Valley, specifically allowing the governing board of a university system to create and operate a law school in either Cameron County or Hidalgo County. The bill aims to address the educational needs of the region by providing access to legal education, which is currently limited in this geographic area. This proposal responds to calls for improved educational opportunities for aspiring legal professionals from the valley, promoting both accessibility and diversity within the legal field.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding HB 59 is the financial viability of establishing a new law school. Funding for the law school must be confirmed, as the bill specifies that no state funds can be appropriated for this purpose before August 31, 2021. This provision raises concerns about whether adequate financial resources can be secured, either through state appropriations or private donations. Furthermore, the process outlined includes a feasibility study to assess the requirements for accreditation, indicating that while the bill lays the groundwork for a law school, practical challenges remain that could impact its implementation.