Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition, fees, and other charges charged to students by public institutions of higher education.
Impact
The bill specifically amends Chapter 54 of the Texas Education Code, reinforcing that public institutions cannot increase tuition beyond previously established rates for similarly situated students. This measure targets not only tuition rates but also other fees and charges associated with enrollment, including on-campus housing and meal plans. The intention behind this bill is to alleviate the financial burden on students and families, making higher education more accessible in the long run.
Summary
House Bill 1232 aims to impose regulations regarding the tuition, fees, and other charges levied by public institutions of higher education in Texas. Specifically, the bill sets a limitation on the total amount of tuition that can be charged to students, ensuring that it does not exceed the amount charged for the 2015-2016 academic year, adjusted for certain conditions such as residency status and degree program. This aims to foster affordability and predictability in higher education costs for students and families.
Contention
While the bill aims to protect students from rising costs, there are potential concerns regarding its implementation. Critics may argue that such limitations could impair institutions' abilities to fund essential services and programs, particularly if the increased costs associated with providing education surpass inflation-adjusted limits imposed by this legislation. Additionally, the ability of institutional governing boards to set differential tuition rates under specific conditions could evoke discussions about equity and fairness in funding among various education programs.
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 providing information to undergraduate students regarding certain fixed or flat tuition rates provided by certain 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.