Texas House Bill HB152

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to providing for a student who qualifies for automatic admission to an institution of higher education to maintain that status for transferring between institutions in certain circumstances.

Impact

The implementation of HB 152 is expected to impact admissions policies at general academic teaching institutions in Texas starting from the spring semester of 2010. By amending these policies, the bill aligns the requirements for transfer students with those who are automatically admitted, thereby enhancing access and opportunities for students who might otherwise face hurdles during their transition between colleges. This change could lead to increased enrollment at receiving institutions as well as promote academic continuity for students.

Summary

House Bill 152 aims to facilitate the transition of students who qualify for automatic admission into Texas higher education institutions. Specifically, the bill outlines the conditions under which a student can maintain their automatic admission status when transferring between institutions. This includes requirements related to their high school graduation date, the timeline of their college enrollment, and the completion of a core curriculum at a different institution with a prescribed GPA. The intention is to create a smoother pathway for students continuing their education in Texas, ensuring they can retain their admission status when transferring colleges.

Contention

While the bill largely aims to simplify the admissions process, it may invite discussions regarding the high academic standards set for transfer students, particularly the 3.25 GPA requirement. Critics may argue that this requirement could disproportionately affect students from under-resourced schools or those who may have faced challenges in completing their core curriculum elsewhere. Furthermore, the implications of such policies on institutional competition and access to higher education could be points of debate among educational stakeholders in Texas.