Texas Senate Bill SB442

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition charged by public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The introduction of SB442 has significant implications for state laws concerning higher education funding and student financial burdens. By capping tuition rates based on previous academic charges, it aims to prevent steep increases in tuition that could hinder students’ access to education. Proponents argue that this approach fosters a more equitable educational environment, helping to alleviate the financial strain on students and families in Texas. The bill aligns with broader educational goals to improve retention rates and graduation rates by making college financially feasible for a larger segment of the population.

Summary

SB442 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing a limitation on the total amount of tuition that public institutions of higher education in Texas can charge students. The bill introduces a new provision in the Education Code that restricts the total tuition charged in an academic year to no more than what was charged to similarly situated students in the preceding academic year, specifically for the 2017-2018 academic year. This legislative move is primarily directed towards ensuring that tuition rates remain stable and predictable for current and prospective students, thereby enhancing affordability in higher education.

Contention

As with many education-related bills, SB442 has sparked discussions around the balance of educational affordability and institutional funding needs. Some stakeholders may express concerns that setting limits on tuition could result in funding shortfalls for institutions, potentially leading to cutbacks in educational services, programs, and faculty resources. Opponents of the cap might highlight that flexibility in setting tuition rates enables institutions to respond to operational costs and inflation. The debate surrounding this bill places educational accessibility against the imperatives facing universities to maintain quality and sustainability in a changing economic landscape.