Relating to the statutory limitation imposed on certain university systems to issue revenue bonds to fund facilities at certain institutions of higher education.
Impact
This legislation modifies existing regulations by establishing a threshold enrollment parameter that institutions must meet before gaining access to revenue bonds. This move is likely intended to ensure that public funding is allocated to institutions that demonstrate robust enrollment levels, which could also suggest a stronger sustainability for the institution's academic programs. By tying bonding authority to enrollment numbers, the state aims to incentivize higher education institutions to attract and retain students, which could simultaneously enhance educational offerings and financial viability.
Summary
House Bill 61 is an act concerning the statutory limitations imposed on certain university systems regarding the issuance of revenue bonds used to fund facilities at specific institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill specifically targets the Texas A&M University System and the University of North Texas System, mandating that these institutions must meet a minimum enrollment requirement before being able to issue bonds for facility development. The bill requires the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to certify that an institution has reached an enrollment of at least 1,500 full-time students for one semester before bonds can be issued for that institution.
Contention
While the intention behind the bill might reflect a responsible allocation of state resources, potential points of contention arise regarding the imposition of enrollment caps as a precursor for bond issuance. Critics may argue that such requirements could disproportionately impact smaller or newer institutions that are still in the development phase and may struggle to meet the stipulated enrollment numbers quickly. This could limit opportunities for these institutions to grow and better serve their communities, ultimately affecting local economies and educational access.
Identical
Relating to the statutory limitation imposed on certain university systems to issue revenue bonds to fund facilities at certain institutions of higher education.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System and the allocation of the annual constitutional appropriation to certain agencies and institutions of higher education; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.
Proposing a constitutional amendment reducing The University of Texas System's share of the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund, transferring to the national research university fund and general revenue fund a portion of the annual distribution made from the permanent university fund to the available university fund, appropriating the portion transferred to the national research university fund, and dedicating the portion transferred to the general revenue fund to provide for the support and maintenance of public institutions of higher education.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of funds to support the capital needs of educational programs offered by the Texas State Technical College System and certain component institutions of the Texas State University System and repealing the limitation on the allocation to the Texas State Technical College System and its campuses of the annual appropriation of certain constitutionally dedicated funding for public institutions of higher education.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to entitle all component institutions of The Texas A&M University System and The University of Texas System to participate in the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund.
Relating to measures to facilitate the successful completion of degree and certificate programs by certain adult learners at public institutions of higher education.