Texas House Bill HB59

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08
• Out of House Committee: 3/31/09

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a law school in the city of Dallas by the University of North Texas System.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will amend the Education Code of Texas to formally incorporate the establishment of the law school and outline its operational authority. The law school will operate under the University of North Texas System until it receives provisional accreditation, at which point it will become part of the University of North Texas at Dallas. The establishment of the law school is anticipated to address the shortage of law graduates in Texas and contribute to the diversity of the legal profession.

Summary

House Bill 59 seeks to establish a law school under the University of North Texas System in the city of Dallas. The law school aims to offer various law degrees similar to other recognized American law schools. It is designed to enhance legal education and accessibility to higher education in Texas, with a particular focus on serving regional students and addressing local legal education needs.

Contention

A notable aspect of HB 59 is its stipulation requiring a feasibility study by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to determine the steps necessary for obtaining accreditation. The bill also empowers the board of regents to finance the law school through bond issuance, capped at $30 million. This funding approach could raise concerns about the financial implications for the university system and its institutions, especially in light of potential fundraising and financial management responsibilities.