Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB929

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to rebates of tuition paid by certain freshman students who maintain satisfactory grades at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The passage of HB 929 is anticipated to have a positive impact on state laws concerning financial assistance for higher education. By introducing a structured rebate system specifically aimed at freshman students, the bill seeks to encourage higher enrollment rates in public institutions and promote academic achievement. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will be responsible for implementing the rules related to this program, ensuring that guidelines for eligibility and tuition rebate processes are established. This could lead to increased retention rates among students, as they would have a financial incentive to maintain satisfactory grades.

Summary

House Bill 929 proposes the creation of the Texas First Scholarship Program, which aims to provide tuition rebates to resident freshman students at public institutions of higher education who maintain satisfactory academic performance. Specifically, the bill stipulates that eligible students would receive a rebate for tuition paid during their first two semesters or summer terms if they complete a full course load and earn a minimum GPA of 2.0. This initiative seeks to incentivize students for academic success and to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with higher education in Texas.

Contention

While the bill appears to offer a beneficial solution for students, it may face scrutiny over funding sources for the tuition rebates. Institutions will be required to cover rebate costs using appropriated funds as well as any grants or donations they can acquire. Concerns may arise regarding the sustainability of the program and whether sufficient funding will be available to meet the potential demand from eligible students. Furthermore, there could be discussions regarding the criteria for 'satisfactory grades' and how it may affect students facing various challenges during their freshman year.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB34

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4330

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4448

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX SB35

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2407

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4363

Relating to the establishment of the Future Texas Teachers Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB2225

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB5148

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB18

Relating to the tenure and employment of faculty members at certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB1976

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.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

CA AB1344

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.