Texas Senate Bill SB1342

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 5/14/09

Caption

Relating to authorization for an exemption from tuition and fees charged by a junior college district for employees of the district.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would have a significant impact on Texas Education Code, particularly regarding the financing of junior college districts. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board would be responsible for including sufficient funds in their formulas to cover the revenue loss incurred by these districts due to the tuition exemption. This financial support is vital for maintaining the fiscal health of junior colleges while promoting employee education.

Summary

SB1342 proposes to allow junior college districts in Texas to waive all or part of the tuition and fees for district employees enrolling in their courses. This initiative aims to promote educational opportunities for employees within these districts and support their professional development. The bill emphasizes the importance of investing in the workforce that educates students, incentivizing more individuals to further their education while remaining employed at the institution.

Contention

While the bill appears to have primarily positive intentions, concerns may arise surrounding the allocation of state funds to cover the costs associated with these exemptions. Some stakeholders might question the sustainability of funding such exemptions amid budget constraints in public education. Additionally, there could be debates about the potential prioritization of funding for employees over other critical educational needs, potentially causing friction among various educational stakeholders.