Relating to the tuition and fee exemption available to certain military personnel and their dependents and to permitting those personnel to transfer the exemption to a child.
Impact
If enacted, HB1550 would modify existing statutes relating to education funding within the state. By allowing military personnel to pass on their tuition exemptions to their dependents, the bill strengthens educational opportunities for children of military members, helping improve access to higher education for this demographic. This move is expected to foster a more educated populace while respecting the sacrifices made by service members and their families.
Summary
House Bill 1550, known as the 'Hazlewood Legacy Act', aims to expand the tuition and fee exemption available to certain military personnel and allows them to transfer this benefit to their children. This amendment particularly seeks to include those who have served honorably in various military conflicts and those who currently do not have access to educational benefits due to default on loans. The bill attempts to support the families of military personnel, recognizing their sacrifices by easing educational financial burdens.
Contention
While the bill may garner significant support, it could face scrutiny regarding the financial implications for state education budgets. Critics may argue that the bill could divert essential funds from public education systems aimed at supporting broader populations of students. Proponents, however, view this as a necessary recognition of the unique challenges faced by military families, advocating that the benefits offered in the bill align with state efforts to invest in community welfare through education.
Identical
Relating to the tuition and fee exemption available to certain military personnel and their dependents and to permitting those personnel to transfer the exemption to a child.
Relating to eligibility of certain current or former members of the Texas National Guard or the Texas Air National Guard for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to service requirements of certain current or former members of the Texas National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to reporting and data collection requirements in relation to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their family members.
Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.