Texas Senate Bill SB154

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to the portion of designated tuition required to be set aside to provide student financial assistance at institutions of higher education.

Impact

This bill is expected to enhance financial assistance for students in higher education by mandating institutions to allocate a specific portion of their tuition revenues. By establishing these requirements, SB154 aims to increase the availability of need-based financial aid for students at public colleges and universities across Texas. This could help alleviate financial burdens for many students, making higher education more accessible and equitable. Moreover, it may positively influence graduation rates by enabling more students to afford their education without excessive financial strain.

Summary

Senate Bill 154 (SB154) proposes amendments to the Education Code regarding the allocation of designated tuition funds at institutions of higher education in Texas. Specifically, the bill stipulates that a minimum percentage of tuition charged to resident undergraduate and graduate students must be set aside to provide financial assistance to need-based students enrolled at the institution. For undergraduate students, at least 20% of tuition exceeding a specified amount must be reserved, while for graduate students, the minimum set-aside requirement is 15%. Additionally, another provision calls for a 5% set-aside from undergraduate tuition for further student financial aid support.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to provide substantial benefits, it may also encounter resistance from stakeholders in the education sector. Some may argue that mandatory set-asides could limit institutional finances, restricting the ability of universities to invest in programs, facilities, or faculty. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding how the allocated funds are managed and whether the financial assistance effectively reaches those most in need. Debates surrounding the effectiveness of designated funds in serving their intended purpose versus supporting broader institutional priorities will likely arise during discussions about the bill.