Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition charged by public institutions of higher education.
Impact
The amendment to Section 54.0514 of the Education Code is particularly significant as it seeks to protect students from disproportionate tuition hikes while still allowing institutions some flexibility in setting fees according to their circumstances. The bill emphasizes that the governing board of an institution may still charge different rates as necessary but within the boundaries established by the cap. By introducing these tuition limitations, the Texas legislature aims to address growing concerns over the rising costs of higher education and student debt levels in the state.
Summary
House Bill 112 (HB112) proposes a limitation on the amount of tuition that public institutions of higher education can charge to students. Specifically, it stipulates that the total tuition charged for an academic year cannot exceed 85% of the total tuition rate charged for a similar student in the 2016-2017 academic year. This bill aims to promote affordability in higher education by capping tuition increases at public institutions, thereby attempting to make college more accessible to Texas residents.
Contention
While proponents of HB112 argue that reducing the maximum tuition charged will make higher education more affordable for all Texas students, opponents may express concerns about how these limitations could affect the financial sustainability of public institutions. There is a potential fear that such caps could lead institutions to struggle with funding essential programs, staff salaries, and facility maintenance. The discussion may also highlight the balance between making education affordable and ensuring that institutions maintain high-quality education standards.
Notable_points
The bill's focus on affordability aligns with broader educational goals outlined by state plans, such as 'Closing the Gaps,' which aims to increase participation and success in higher education across diverse populations. Furthermore, the bill signals an ongoing legislative trend toward regulating tuition fees, reflecting a conscious effort to make higher education equitable and accessible in Texas.
Relating to the determination of resident status of certain high school graduates by public institutions of higher education and to the tuition and fees charged by those institutions to those graduates.
Relating to a study by the Legislative Budget Board concerning the long-term effects of regulating tuition rates and amounts charged by public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.