Texas Senate Bill SB1085

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/26/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/9/09

Caption

Relating to a report to the legislature and the Legislative Budget Board regarding funding for campuses of public institutions of higher education located outside the United States.

Impact

The impact of SB1085 on state laws revolves around enhancing the regulatory framework for Texas public institutions operating campuses abroad. By requiring a formal reporting structure, the bill aims to create a standardized way for educational institutions to disclose their funding sources and financial practices, thereby holding them accountable to both the legislative body and the public. This move is seen as a way to promote fiscal responsibility and safeguard state interests in the allocation and management of funds related to international educational facilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 1085 introduces a mechanism for improved oversight of funding for campuses of public institutions of higher education located outside the United States. This bill mandates that every biennium, the governing board for each university system or institution maintaining such a campus must submit detailed reports on the sources of funding. The report will include specific information about the tuition and fees charged to students enrolled at these international campuses, alongside how these funds are managed and disbursed. The intent is to ensure transparency and accountability in the financial administration of these foreign campuses.

Contention

While the bill's proponents advocate for its potential to increase fiscal transparency and oversight, there may be points of contention regarding the compliance burden it places on university systems. Critics could argue that this additional reporting requirement may divert resources away from educational missions, particularly for institutions that already manage complex international operations. Additionally, the specifics of what constitutes appropriate funding reporting could become a topic of debate, as different institutions may have varying capabilities and processes for adhering to the new regulations.